Ohio Christian University officials acted quickly to protect students and staff after a reported security concern prompted a campus lockdown on the evening of February 20, 2026. The precautionary measures were taken after a campus security officer encountered an unidentified individual near the university’s softball field in Circleville.
According to university officials, the individual was spotted in a wooded area adjacent to campus property. During the encounter, the person reportedly displayed a firearm before fleeing into nearby woods. Campus security immediately notified local authorities, and officers from the Circleville Police Department and the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office responded swiftly to the scene.
Out of an abundance of caution, the university activated its emergency lockdown and shelter-in-place protocols. Students, faculty, and staff were directed to remain indoors while law enforcement secured the perimeter between campus buildings and the wooded area. These safety procedures were implemented to ensure that everyone remained protected while officers assessed the situation.
University President R.D. Saunders praised the rapid response of campus security and local law enforcement. He emphasized that the safety and well-being of students and employees remains the institution’s top priority. He also expressed appreciation for the cooperation and calm response demonstrated by the campus community during the incident.
Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported, and there was no immediate threat to campus once safety measures were in place. Law enforcement officials continue to investigate and search for the unidentified individual involved in the incident.
University officials reassured students and families that the emergency response protocols worked as intended. Ohio Christian University remains committed to maintaining a secure environment and will continue working closely with local authorities to ensure the safety of everyone on campus as the investigation continues.