Grove City College Lockdown Lifted After Suspect Search
GROVE CITY (KDKA) -- A lockdown has been lifted at Grove City College following the search for suspects in an armed robbery at a business in Mercer County.
College officials say the lockdown was lifted at 9:45 a.m. and classes resumed at 11:30 a.m.
"I think the safety and security of our students is our first concern and we followed all of our proper protocols to ensure that that was the case, including social media messaging to them in a timely fashion," said Jackie Miller, the senior director of marketing and communications at Grove City College.
According to state police, it all started around 6:15 a.m. with a robbery and assault at Butch's Salvage Yard along Mercer-Grove City Road in Findley Township.
Police say the suspects robbed and assaulted an employee as he was opening up for the day. The suspects got away in a dark-colored SUV, headed towards Grove City Borough. Police say a vehicle matching the description a short time later, but the vehicle managed to escape along Route 58.
Police say one of the suspects tossed a gun into the bushes as they ran towards the college campus.
An unarmed suspect was taken into custody on campus, but the other got away.
It was the second day of classes at the college.
"Grove City is such a safe place that we weren't really super scared," said one student of the lockdown.
"It was very surprising because Grove City is very quiet, so for this to happen is very different," another student said.
A statement from Grove City College reads in part:
"We are not aware of any information that suggests students were ever at risk, nor are we aware of the involvement of any Grove City College students or employees.
"Grove City College continues to work actively with state and local law enforcement to assist in this matter in any way appropriate to ensure the safety of our students and employees. Going forward, we will continue to maintain communication with law enforcement regarding this matter and will provide an update, if warranted."
They are encouraging students with any questions or concerns about the incident to speak with on-campus counselors or members of the Student Life and Learning Team.
The college canceled their Convocation due to the lockdown. It has been rescheduled for Thursday.
So far, there's no word yet on the suspects' names or what charges they'll be facing. The one currently in custody is being questioned by state police.
The assault victim was taken to Grove City Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.
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