UPDATE
A suspect is in custody after a shooting threat was made to the Madison Heights Walmart, according to the Amherst County Sheriff’s Office.
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Authorities said at 12:05 p.m. Friday, the sheriff’s office was made aware of alarming social media posts, threatening a shooting at the Walmart.
We’re told deputies immediately responded to the area and began an investigation.
Out of an abundance of caution, Walmart was evacuated, the shopping center was closed, and three Amherst Co. schools were placed in secure mode.
During a preliminary investigation, deputies identified the suspect as Skyler Thomas of Lynchburg.
Thomas was located in Lynchburg and taken into custody at around 3:30 p.m., according to authorities.
He is charged with threat in writing with terroristic intent, a class 5 felony.
The investigation is ongoing an charges are pending.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Lt G. Jones at 434-946-9373 opt. 2 or call Central Virginia Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900.
UPDATE
The Amherst Co. Sheriff’s Office has given an all-clear after a shooting threat against the Madison Heights Walmart that led to three schools being placed in secure mode, according to Amherst County Public Schools.
Students at Monelison Middle School, Amherst Education Center, and Amelon Elementary School were dismissed at a normal time, but some bus routes were altered to avoid the incident at the Walmart.
ORIGINAL STORY
The Madison Heights Walmart is temporarily closed while authorities conduct an active investigation, according to the Monelison Volunteer Fire Department.
The public asked to avoid the area at this time.
According to Amherst County Public Schools, Amelon Elementary, Monelison Middle, and Amherst Education Center are in secure mode.
School officials said there is no threat to the schools, however they are on secure mode due to their proximity to the business.
“Please do not come to the school to pick up your child. At this time we are anticipating a normal dismissal, but will update you as soon as possible,” the school division said.
We’ll continue to update this article as we learn more.