BAY CITY, MICH. — Swift Police Action Ensures Safety After Firearm Sighting Near Local School
In a swift and coordinated response to a potentially dangerous situation near a local school, the Bay City Department of Public Safety (BCDPS) successfully apprehended three individuals following a 911 report of a firearm sighting early Thursday morning. The incident, which unfolded near a school zone shortly before classes began, triggered immediate action from local law enforcement, who prioritized the safety of students, staff, and nearby residents.
According to officials, the 911 call was received at approximately 7:45 a.m., with the caller reporting suspicious activity involving a possible firearm near the intersection of 21st Street and Fremont Avenue, just a few blocks from a local elementary school. The report indicated that three individuals, described as young males, were seen behaving erratically and possibly brandishing a weapon.
Upon receiving the call, officers from the BCDPS were dispatched to the scene within minutes. Their rapid deployment was part of a coordinated safety protocol designed for incidents involving potential threats near schools. Additional patrol units were strategically positioned around the school and surrounding neighborhoods to monitor and secure the area.
Within 20 minutes of the initial report, authorities located the individuals matching the descriptions provided. Officers executed a high-alert stop, taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety. The suspects were detained without incident and transported to the Bay City Public Safety Department for questioning.
During the investigation, a firearm was recovered near the location of the arrest. While authorities have not yet confirmed whether the weapon was loaded or operational, its presence near a school zone has raised serious concerns. Preliminary findings suggest that at least one of the suspects may have had prior interactions with law enforcement, although no formal charges have yet been announced as of Thursday afternoon.
Bay City Public Schools were briefly placed under a soft lockdown as a precautionary measure during the police response. School officials communicated with parents via emergency alerts and social media, reassuring them that students were safe and that the situation was being handled by law enforcement. The lockdown was lifted around 9:15 a.m., and classes resumed shortly thereafter with additional security present on site.
“We take any report of a firearm near our schools extremely seriously,” said Bay City Public Safety Director Robert Battinkoff in a press conference Thursday. “Thanks to the prompt action of our officers and the cooperation of the community, we were able to resolve this incident quickly and without harm. We are continuing our investigation and will share more information as it becomes available.”
Parents in the area expressed both concern and relief over the incident. “It’s scary to think what could’ve happened,” said local parent Jessica Martinez, who has two children attending the nearby school. “But I’m grateful for the fast response. It really shows how important it is to stay vigilant and speak up if you see something suspicious.”
The identities of the three individuals taken into custody have not been released, pending further investigation and potential charges. Authorities are working closely with the Bay County Prosecutor’s Office to determine the appropriate legal actions.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community awareness, quick action by law enforcement, and the critical role of emergency preparedness in safeguarding schools and neighborhoods. The Bay City Department of Public Safety continues to urge residents to report any suspicious behavior and to remain proactive in maintaining a safe environment for all.