FORT RILEY REOPENS AFTER BEING PUT ON LOCKDOWN FOR A POSSIBLE SHOOTING
On Thursday, February 6, 2025, Fort Riley, a U.S. Army base in Kansas, was temporarily placed on lockdown following reports of an active shooter near Custer Hill. Base officials promptly closed all gates and advised personnel to initiate lockdown procedures. The lockdown was initiated as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and security of personnel and facilities. Learn more about the details surrounding what prompted the lockdown.
Fort Riley Is Put Under Lockdown Thursday at Noon
Fort Riley was put under lockdown at noon on February 6th, 2025. Entrances to the post were closed for about 30 minutes, but officials have provided very little detail about the reason why they were closed.
The following statements were released on the base’s Facebook page regarding the lockdown status:
UPDATE 1:05 p.m.
ALL CLEAR
“Lockdown has been lifted. ACPs have resumed normal operations.”
FINAL UPDATE 3:33 p.m.
“Fort Riley lockdown lifted.
Fort Riley, Kansas emergency services personnel responded this morning to a report of gun shots on Fort Riley. Per standard procedures, units on Custer Hill and the access control points were directed to lock down at 11:42 a.m. The lock down was lifted at 1:04 p.m., and the post and all access control points have resumed normal operations. After a thorough search of the area, there is no evidence of a shooting. There are no injuries and no current threat to the installation.
The safety and security of our community is our top priority, and we take all reports of potential threats extremely seriously. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the community during this incident.
We would like to extend our appreciation to the law enforcement agencies and emergency medical teams (EMTs) who responded to the situation with professionalism and dedication. Their effective response ensured the safety of everyone involved, and we are incredibly proud of their service.”
Irwin Army Community Hospital & Seitz Elementary Take to Facebook
The Irwin Army Community Hospital shared on Facebook that it had also entered a lockdown:
“ADVISORY: THE HOSPITAL IS CURRENTLY UNDER LOCKDOWN
For the safety and security of all patients, staff, and visitors, all entrances are now locked. If you need to enter the facility, please use the Emergency Department entrance. This is the only access point available during the lockdown.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure the safety of everyone in the facility. Please follow any instructions from security or hospital staff upon arrival.
Thank you for your patience.”
Update: “Lockdown has been lifted. Thank you for your patience. Appointments will remain as scheduled.”
USD 475 Seitz Elementary took to their Facebook to comment on the incident at Fort Riley. Their post stated,
“The incident on Fort Riley is contained and there is no danger to students.
We have received word the gates are reopened.”
Where is Fort Riley Located?
Fort Riley is located in the Flint Hills region of Kansas. The base houses nearly 15,000 active-duty service members and is home to 30,000 Veterans, retirees, and around 5,000 civilian employees who work on base.
The base address is the following: 500 Holbrook Ave Garrison HQ Fort Riley, KS 66442.
You can reach the base at this number: 785-239-3033.
Fort Riley Is the Second Base to be Put Under Lockdown This Week
In another incident earlier this week, Hunter Army Airfield in Georgia also implemented lockdown procedures due to concerns about a suspicious individual on base.
The base's law enforcement personnel responded swiftly to the situation, ensuring the safety of all personnel. After a comprehensive search and assessment, the lockdown was lifted, and activities returned to normal.
Both of these incidents highlight the importance of preparedness on military installations. Additionally, the prompt responses and precautionary measures taken in both instances highlight the commitment of military installations to maintaining the safety and security of their personnel.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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