Fayetteville, NC — January 27, 2026 — Fayetteville Police Department officials say two Fayetteville elementary schools were placed on precautionary safety status Tuesday morning following hoax phone calls referencing potential acts of mass violence.
According to police, at approximately 9:11 a.m. on January 27, 2026, officers received two separate safety-related phone calls involving Ashley Elementary School and Lucile Souders Elementary School.
Ashley Elementary School is located on Trainor Drive off Robeson Street, while Lucile Souders Elementary School is located on Hillview Avenue off Ramsey Street.
Law Enforcement Response and Code Yellow Status
As a precaution, Code Yellow was placed into effect at both schools while the reports were investigated. Multiple law enforcement units responded, including patrol officers, School Resource Officers (SROs), and a K-9 unit.
A Code Yellow is a medium-level safety status used by Cumberland County Schools. During a Code Yellow, schools secure the building and limit movement and entry while a reported concern is investigated, often with law enforcement assistance, to ensure student and staff safety until an all-clear is given.
At Ashley Elementary, the Code Yellow occurred during an already delayed school start related to lingering weather concerns. Students and visitors were temporarily not permitted to enter the building while the safety status remained active. An online notice was shared by the school shortly after 9:30 a.m.
Students who were already on school buses remained on the buses, and families in the car line were instructed to stay in place until the investigation was completed.
Investigation Outcome
Police said law enforcement presence was visible at both schools during the response, including the deployment of a K-9 unit.
During the investigation, officers identified two juveniles as responsible for making the hoax threats. Both juveniles have been referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice. Due to their age, no additional identifying information has been released.
Investigators stated the threats were not credible, and authorities confirmed there was no indication of immediate danger to students, staff, or the public at either school.
Community Response
Officials expressed appreciation for the cooperation of school staff, families, and students during the incident. Law enforcement also acknowledged the work of Fayetteville Police officers, School Resource Officers, and K-9 units for their professionalism and commitment to school safety.
WatchOut Cumberland County NC
