UPDATE: B.T.W. undergoes third lockdown of school year after nearby gunfire

Update at 4:40 p.m.

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — In a FOIA document obtained by WCIA after Thursday’s shooting near Booker T. Washington STEM Academy, it was revealed that the school had a “soft lockdown” just last month — also in response to nearby gunfire.

In an email to BTW families and staff members, Superintendent Dr. Shelia Boozer sent the following:

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WCIA reached out to the Champaign Police Department, who confirmed the incident.

Near 2:15 p.m. on March 20, they said several gunshots were heard by both Champaign Police and B.T.W. security personnel. The school was put on lockdown to ensure safety. Meanwhile, police responded to the scene near Nelson Court and Phillips Drive, where they found evidence of shots fired.

Champaign Police said B.T.W. was never under any immediate threat in this incident, and no injuries were reported.

The incident has been under investigation since it happened on March 20. The school lifted its lockdown just before 3 p.m. that day.

Update at 4:15 p.m.

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Urbana Police Department shared details regarding a shooting near Booker T. Washington STEM Academy that placed the school on lockdown on Thursday.

At 12:03 p.m., Urbana Police arrived at the scene on Brookstone Court in response to several shots fired reports. At least four shell casings were found near the entrance to the Hamilton on the Park Apartments, and a window at the complex’s office was struck by gunfire.

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Police clarified that there is currently no evidence that Booker T. Washington or its students were involved in the shooting. They say there was no clear intended target or motive, and no victims have come forward.

Anyone with further details or video related to this incident are urged to call the police at 217-
384-2320. Arrangements can be made for information to be shared privately.

Tips can also be shared completely anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 217-373-8477, submitting online at 373tips.com, or through the “P3 Tips” mobile app.

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Booker T. Washington STEM Academy in Champaign was placed on lockdown on Thursday after gunshots were heard nearby.

In an email obtained by WCIA, the school’s administrative team confirmed that the lockdown was issued at 11:45 a.m. out of “an abundance of caution.” The lockdown was lifted around 1 p.m. after law enforcement determined there was no longer a threat. The school day proceeded as usual.

Additional authorities will be in the area during the school’s 3:30 p.m. dismissal, the administrative team said.

The incident comes seven months after gunfire was exchanged near BTW’s campus, leading to the arrest of five people and a flurry of disputes regarding the school’s safety protocols. The controversy accumulated in the school’s principal and assistant principal being placed on administrative leave, despite the support of several parents and board members.

In February, an 18-year-old was sentenced to six years for his role in the shots fired incident. Just last week, BTW’s principal was confirmed to soon relocate to the Rantoul School District.

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In the meantime, law enforcement continues to investigate the incident. Administrators say they will continue to actively ensure the safety of their students and staff.

The full email from BTW administration can be read below.

This is a developing story.

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