Maryland State House on Lockdown After Security Threat, Police Intervene
The Maryland State House, along with adjacent legislative buildings in the city of Annapolis, experienced a tense situation as they were placed under lockdown for nearly two hours on Thursday due to an unspecified security threat.
The situation began unfolding just after 5 p.m., with law enforcement giving the all-clear at 6:48 p.m., restoring peace to the state’s legislative heart.
“The Maryland State House is currently under lockdown for a security threat. No other information is available at this time,” a spokesperson for Gov. Wes Moore stated. “Staff members, personnel, and community members on grounds should shelter in place and listen to directions from any available member of capitol police or law enforcement.”
In an atmosphere of heightened alert, reporters in the State House press room were informed of the potential presence of a gunman, leading to immediate precautionary measures. Individuals in the room secured the doors, dimmed the lights and sought safety on the floor. Subsequently, those in the State House basement were evacuated to Lawyers Mall, then to the House Office Building.
The emergency’s ripple effect was slower to reach the House and Senate office buildings, where legislative committees were in session. The lockdown prompted the closure of State Circle and adjacent streets.
Among those affected were municipal officials, student pages, State House staffers and journalists, who were gathered for various reasons but united by the unexpected lockdown. Rockville Mayor, Monique Ashton, poised to attend a reception at Government House, recounted the swift action by security personnel to ensure everyone’s safety.
Following the all-clear, Senate President Bill Ferguson and House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones expressed their gratitude toward the law enforcement officers’ swift response. “We want to thank all the law enforcement officers who responded today,” they said. “We and everyone else in the legislative complex are grateful for their presence as we continue to do the people’s work.”
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