A spokeswoman for the Little Rock Air Force Base says the grounds have been reopened after being put on lockdown earlier today because of a suspicious individual.
Authorities aren't offering any additional details about what prompted the scare or how it was resolved. Gates reopened 4:08 p.m., after being closed at 11:45.
From Twitter:
Long line of cars streaming off Little Rock Air Force Base now that lockdown has been lifted. @THV11 pic.twitter.com/JYerl41gQP
— Phil Buck (@Phil_Buck) July 23, 2014
In a written statement, Col. Patrick Rhatigan, 19th Airlift Wing commander said:
We responded with the necessary caution to secure our Airmen, their families and Air Force resources. After a thorough search of the base, we the found the report no longer credible. I am pleased with the response of our Security Forces and appreciate the support of the Jacksonville Police Department and other federal law enforcement officials. We apologize for the inconvenience this has caused, but security and safety is our top priority.
Earlier report from the Associated Press:
The Little Rock Air Force Base is on lockdown after reports of a suspicious individual.
Officials say the base in Jacksonville was locked down at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, and emergency personnel are on scene. Gates allowing access to the base have been closed.
A base spokeswoman declined to provide further detail, only saying that the lockdown was prompted by a suspicious person.
More details are expected to be released later Wednesday.
