Authorities search Huntley High School after bullet found in hallway

Huntley High School was temporarily on lockdown Sunday after a single bullet was found in the hallway, but officials say there is no threat to student or faculty safety.

The building was in use by Willow Creek Community Church when a member of the congregation found a live round near the Performing Arts Center about 10:15 a.m., according to a news release from Huntley police.

The bullet was handed over to church personnel, and Huntley police were called to the school at 11:19 a.m.

When church services ended, police said, the high school was evacuated, placed on lockdown and searched by Huntley Community School District 158 personnel and Huntley police. K-9 units from the Kane County sheriff's office, the Cook County sheriff's office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also assisted in the search.

Authorities did not find any other suspicious items, and the building was reopened at 4:42 p.m.

In a letter to families posted on the district website, Principal Scott Rowe said the bullet found is unrelated to an incident that occurred last week, when "a student was overheard making threatening remarks that were determined to be superficial."

"In working with police, we are confident that our school is safe for students and staff on Monday morning," he said.

District officials said in a tweet Sunday evening that there will be "increased police presence" Monday both inside and outside the building.

Because custodians clean the building every weeknight, Rowe said, authorities don't believe the bullet was in the school during the day Friday.

The performing arts wing is used regularly by outside groups and organizations, police said, noting that they are "working with the school district staff to ensure a safe environment."

Anyone with concerns, questions or information regarding the suspicious item is asked to call Huntley police at (847) 515-5311.