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Death investigation underway at Salem High School; No foul play suspected

Posted at 9:27 AM, Nov 30, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-01 08:28:38-05

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Virginia Beach Police are investigating the death of a student at Salem High School.

Scene outside Salem High School

Virginia Beach Police say they were sent to the school at 8:10 a.m. Thursday for reports of a cardiac arrest.

They say this is an active police investigation, but there is no threat to public safety. There is no foul play suspected and they are not seeking any suspects.

Virginia Beach Police spokesperson Tonya Pierce tells News 3 that the family of the student has been notified. Rumors of a stabbing or hanging are also untrue, she says.

The school sent an email out to parents Thursday morning saying the situation involved "a personal medical issue involving an individual student."

Good morning, Salem High School Parents,

This important message is being sent on behalf of principal Matt Delaney. Salem High School is currently on external lockdown due to a personal medical issue involving an individual student. All students will remain in their current class for the time being. At this time, there is no reason for parents to pick up their children. We will update you with more information once the lockdown is lifted.

Thank you for our patience and for your continued support of Salem High School.

Many parents were present at the school on Thursday for a parent's day where they shadow their students through the day.

After being on an external lockdown for several hours, the school dismissed at noon and all after-school activities were canceled.

A statement from Virginia Beach Public Schools says grief counselors are at the school and will continue to be available in the days ahead.

Virginia Beach police are investigating the death of an individual student at Salem High School. No foul play is suspected and police are not looking for a suspect. While the external lockdown continues, an early dismissal for all students will occur at 12 p.m. today. Students will be offered a bag lunch as they exit the building. Bus transportation will be provided and dismissal will occur as usual. There is no need for parents to pick their children up at the school, unless this is your typical practice. In addition, all afterschool activities here at Salem High School are cancelled today. Grief counselors are at the school now and will continue to be available in the days ahead. Thank you.

News 3 is working to gather more details. Stay with us for updates!

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