Clarkston Schools Lift Shelter-in-Place After One-Hour Precaution Amidst ICE Pursuit of Two Individuals

Clarkston, Michigan – Clarkston Community Schools implemented a district-wide shelter-in-place order for approximately one hour on Wednesday, November 19, following reports of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in the vicinity. The measure was enacted as a precaution after the Oakland County Sheriff's Office notified school officials that federal agents were pursuing two individuals, described as "reported gang members," who had fled on foot near an elementary school in Independence Township.

The shelter-in-place, which allowed classes to continue indoors with limited building access, began around 10 a.m. and was lifted by 11 a.m. "This morning, I received a call from the Oakland County Sheriff's Office," Superintendent Shawn Ryan stated in an email to families. He added that a lieutenant informed him deputies were assisting federal agents "searching for two individuals in the area of Sashabaw and Clarkston Roads and advised we secure our buildings."

The Oakland County Sheriff's Office confirmed their involvement, stating, "We were notified by federal agents that they were pursuing suspects – reported gang members – who had fled on foot near an elementary school in Independence Township." The Sheriff's Office deployed resources to protect students and staff, and to assist in the search.

District spokeswoman Kelly Allen clarified that a shelter-in-place differs from a lockdown, permitting movement within school buildings while restricting entry and exit. The two individuals being pursued by ICE agents and assisted by the Oakland County Sheriff's Office were reportedly not located by the time the shelter-in-place was lifted. Law enforcement maintained a presence at the elementary school until all students had safely departed.