The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office says a man seen Thursday morning carrying an apparent weapon near the Habersham Ninth Grade Academy never entered school property and did not pose a threat to students or staff.
According to a statement posted to the sheriff’s office Facebook page, a school employee and several parents reported seeing a man on Owens Circle as students and staff were arriving prior to the start of the school day.
Deputies from the sheriff’s office, officers with the Habersham County Board of Education Police Department, and troopers with the Georgia State Patrol responded immediately and made contact with the individual on Ga. 197 near the ramp to Ga. 365.
When officers approached the man, he was walking away from the schools. Authorities reported that he had the handle of a machete visible from his backpack and was carrying a crossbow that was not functioning.
Law enforcement officials stated that the man’s only means of transportation is on foot and that he regularly walks in that area. He told deputies he had chosen to walk behind the school along the road in an effort to avoid alarming anyone and was heading home.
School police officials confirmed the man never came onto school grounds at any time.
Sheriff Robin Krockum and Board of Education Police Chief Murray Kogod emphasized that students, staff, and parents were not in danger during the incident. Officials also praised the quick response by local and state law enforcement personnel to ensure the situation was promptly assessed.
Authorities indicated they are familiar with the individual and that no criminal charges were announced in connection with the incident.
