Mike Smith

Artesia Daily Press

msmith@currentargus.com

Shots from a 21-gun salute at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center led to a short lockdown at two Artesia schools Thursday, according to an Artesia Police Department spokesperson.

The salute was part of the 33^rd annual Indian Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial Ceremony, which honors fallen officers from the U.S. Indian Police Academy, said Cmdr. Pete Quinones.

“Children and teachers (at Yucca Elementary School) heard shots,” he said. “When the second round of fire came, a teacher pushed the panic button which sends us a message. We treated it as if it was a real emergency.”

Quinones said officers arrived at the school at 900 N. 13^th St. around 12:11 p.m. He said the scene was cleared 30 minutes after the call was received.

Artesia Public Schools superintendent Darian Jaramillo said Yucca and Park Junior High School at 1508 W. Cannon Ave. were locked down during the investigation.

She praised law enforcement for its rapid response and school staff for taking action.

“The staff did exactly what they’re supposed to do,” Jaramillo said.

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