News Release

IWV Campus

Cerro Coso IWV Campus Goes Into Lockdown

April 11, 2008

Yesterday at approximately 7:50 p.m. Cerro Coso Security saw a male walking with what appeared to be a rifle near the Library. The security officer shouted for him to stop and the individual immediately fled.

The Ridgecrest Police were immediately notified and responded rapidly. The College went into immediate lockdown. Police secured individual buildings and students left in an orderly manner. "I am very proud of how the college staff and students responded to this situation," stated Dr. Mary Retterer, President of Cerro Coso.

Selected Cerro Coso staff had just two weeks ago completed focused training in Critical Incident Management. Cerro Coso Community College is in compliance with following the Governor's Office of Emergency Services in State Emergency Management Systems (SEMS) and National Incident Management System (NIMS).

The college is now secure and classes are back on normal operational schedule.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Joann Handeland, Director of Public Information (760) 384-6230