This is a breaking story. Please check back for updates as more information becomes available.
A possible active shooter situation on Tuesday afternoon at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda was actually a drill, officials have said.
The medical center and military officials later said that the active shooter alarm was a drill, and that there was no active shooter, CBS Baltimore reported.
UPDATE: Active shooter alarm dismissed as drill, according to the medical center
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) November 27, 2018
The Pentagon said the situation was a drill, and there was no active shooter, according to CBS Baltimore.
BREAKING UPDATE: According to military officials, the active shooter reported at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center this afternoon was a drill. https://t.co/hkXfoEEGGN
— WJZ | CBS Baltimore (@wjz) November 27, 2018
#BREAKING: Pentagon says situation at Walter Reed was an EXERCISE. No active shooter. @wjz
— Rick Ritter (@RickRitterWJZ) November 27, 2018
The medical center was on lockdown and a huge police presence filled the area as authorities investigated reports of an active shooter.
Naval Support Activity Bethesda had said, “There is a report of an active shooter in the Bldg. 19 basement. If you are on the installation, go to the nearest available vehicle, structure, or building that provides a measure of protection and lockdown. If you are not on the installation, stay away.”
“First responders are on scene and initial reports indicate there are no signs of an active shooter. We will continue to post updates as we get information,” the update added. “Please be aware that all gates are closed until further notice.”
Just In: Police are responding to a report of an active shooter in a building at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. https://t.co/ENogPqKmLo
— NBCWashington (@nbcwashington) November 27, 2018
Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger was among those present in the building, and he had tweeted, “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.”
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
Photos show the heavy police response to the incident.
Huge police response at Walter Reed Medical Center after “active shooter” alert is issued. @nbcwashington pic.twitter.com/OHLaDXVM9p
— Jesse Rodriguez (@JesseRodriguez) November 27, 2018
