Staff at the Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland have been told to shelter in place due to reports of an active shooter at the principal US military hospital.
Local police have responded to the scene, but have not yet confirmed the presence of a shooter. Maryland Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger was attending a meeting on the grounds and tweeted about the active shooter alert.
I am currently at Walter Reed Medical in Bethesda where we've been told there is an active shooter. I am currently safe in a conference room w/ approx 40 others.
— Dutch Ruppersberger (@Call_Me_Dutch) November 27, 2018
According to a text alert circulated among staff, they were to “lock all doors, turn off all lights” and stay in a secure location until otherwise notified.
Inside Walter Reed right now after the active shooter announcement. Was looking on Twitter for news and it's filled with people questioning the safety of their loved ones. Building 19 in lockdown. Haven't heard any shots. Multiple agencies responding. Hopefully false alarm. pic.twitter.com/xNDKyEuN56
— Lindsey Migliore, DO (@DrMigliore) November 27, 2018
ACTIVE SHOOTER WALTER REED NATIONAL MEDICAL CENTER!!! CODE WHITE!
PEOPLE LOCKED IN ROOMS HIDING FROM SHOOTER>JUST ON FOX NEWS
— Catori (@Catori33) November 27, 2018
Building 19, where the initial 'shots fired' report came from, has been cleared and there is no indication of a shooter so far, local media reported, citing a source in the military. The complex remains on lockdown, however.
Can’t believe this is happening