GRAND JUNCTION, CO — A report of a man possibly waving a gun near a local elementary school prompted a brief shelter-in-place Wednesday morning, though police quickly determined the object was just a piece of black clothing.
At approximately 9:10 a.m. on April 1, 2026, officers with the Grand Junction Police Department responded to the 1500 block of Orchard Avenue following a report of an armed individual. Out of an abundance of caution, nearby Orchard Avenue Elementary School was placed into a shelter-in-place while authorities searched the area.
Officers quickly located the man in question and made contact without incident. Following a thorough investigation, police confirmed that the individual had been waving a piece of black clothing, not a firearm.
The shelter-in-place at the school was lifted as soon as officers verified there was no immediate threat to the area or the community.
Following the incident, the Grand Junction Police Department expressed gratitude to the public for reporting the suspicious activity. The department reminded residents that if they see something concerning, they should report it right away, as prompt reporting allows first responders to act quickly and ensure public safety.