HULL — Superintendent Michael F. Devine and Police Chief John Dunn report that Hull Middle School was briefly placed on lockdown this morning after a shell casing was found in the building.

Police have determined that at no time during the incident was there a threat or danger to the school.

At approximately 9 a.m. on Friday, a school employee found an empty .22 caliber shell casing in the school gymnasium and immediately reported it to the front office.

School Resource Officer Leanne Marshalsea and Hull Police arrived at the school within minutes, and out of an abundance of caution, Principal Anthony Hrivnak followed standard protocol and placed the school on lockdown.

By 9:20 a.m. the school transitioned to a shelter-in-place, meaning students were asked to remain in their classrooms but regular instruction would continue.

After consulting with school and police officials, a specialized K-9 Unit from the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office swept the school and no additional casings were found.

Principal Hrivnak contacted parents via email and voicemail notifying them of the situation at approximately 10 a.m.

The shelter-in-place was lifted at 11:25 a.m.

Officer Marshalsea will remain on scene for the remainder of the day. School guidance and nursing staff will also be available for any students in need of assistance.

At no time did police officers or the K-9 unit come into contact with students.

“I want to commend the school employee for immediately reporting what he found to school officials, and thank the Hull Police and Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office for their quick response,” Superintendent Devine said. “Everyone acted swiftly and professionally to ensure the safety of our school community.”

“My first priority is always the safety of our students and school staff,” Principal Hrivnak said. “I am grateful no one was hurt during this incident, and thank everyone for their collaboration in responding.”

Any students with information on the incident are asked to contact Principal Hrivnak immediately.

The incident remains under investigation by the Hull Police Department and the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office.

###