No weapon found after locker search at Tomah Middle School

March 3, 2026

TOMAH, Wis. – A middle school resumed normal operations Monday morning after a report of a possible weapon prompted a brief security hold.

Tomah Middle School administrators contacted the Monroe County Communication Center at approximately 8 a.m. on March 2. Officials reported that a student possibly had a weapon in their locker.

Officers from the Tomah Police Department and the Wisconsin State Patrol responded to the campus. Authorities located the student in question and escorted them to the main office while searching their locker and personal property. Investigators did not locate a weapon.

The school initiated a hold protocol for approximately 12 minutes during the search. Students and staff cleared the hallways and remained inside locked classrooms to conduct business as usual. The school resumed its normal schedule at 8:12 a.m..

District Administrator Mike Hanson commended the school community for their handling of the situation. “We commend the administration, staff, and students for their calm coordinated and efficient response which ensured the situation was resolved safely and promptly,” said Hanson.

The district identified the student involved and indicated that appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. Hanson noted that privacy obligations prevent the release of further details about the individual. “Due to our legal obligation to maintain student confidentiality we cannot share further details at this time,” said Hanson. “However please know that we take this situation very seriously.”

School officials emphasized their commitment to student safety and their ongoing partnerships with local authorities. “Tomah Area School District administration takes every report of threats seriously,” said Hanson. “Thorough investigation of incidents are promptly conducted with law enforcement and other agencies.”

The district utilizes the Speak Up Speak Out Wisconsin program to receive anonymous tips. The incident remains under investigation and officials encourage anyone with additional information to contact the authorities.