No injuries after witnesses report gunshots at San Diego military base

An unconfirmed report of shots fired this morning at Naval Medical Center San Diego in Balboa Park prompted a lockdown of the facility and nearby schools as law enforcement officers flooded the area and police dogs worked to clear buildings.

Around 8 a.m., a witness reported hearing three shots come from the basement of building 26, which houses a gym and barracks, according to Navy Region Southwest.

Military police and working dogs were summoned to search the building, but as of 10 a.m., no evidence of a shooting had been found, according to Navy officials.

A spokeswoman with Navy Public Affairs said a CBS News report that a person had been detained aboard the medical center off Bob Wilson Drive had not been confirmed.

Earlier this morning, officials at the medical center, commonly known as Balboa Hospital, urged those already at the facility to “run, hide or fight,” as law enforcement officers swarmed the compound. Others, including non-emergency response personnel, were asked to stay away.

Authorities at Naval Base San Diego said via Facebook those in the vicinity should shelter in place. “If in immediate danger, hide or seek shelter in secure space,” the message stated. “Barricade the door and dial 911. Silence phones and other devices. Stay away from doors and windows. Remain calm and quiet.”

Shortly after 9 a.m., Navy officials announced that the entire complex had been secured, including its childcare facilities, and no one was being allowed access. All children were said to be accounted for and safe.

Nearby Roosevelt Middle, and Garfield and San Diego High schools were placed on lockdown as a precaution, according to the San Diego Unified School District. The lockdown was later lifted, as was a subsequent order for students to shelter in place.