‘Emergency’ Contained, Authorities Say
EdNews Virginia | September 2, 2026
An “emergency” at Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro, Virginia drew a heavy law enforcement response today. Scanner traffic indicated a possible shooting around 9:30 AM.
Augusta County Sheriff Donald Smith later assured families the situation was under control. Local authorities, in coordination with state and federal law enforcement, secured the school. After the building was evacuated, students reunited with families inside a nearby church.
Authorities have not yet confirmed if a shooting actually occurred inside the school or whether anyone was injured.
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger told residents that she is monitoring the situation. “My heart is with these young students, their parents and families, and the teachers and staff at the school,” the governor added.
Congressman Ben Cline, whose district includes Waynesboro, offered his appreciation for law enforcement and prayers for the students, teachers and families impacted. “I will continue to monitor the situation closely,” he told constituents. “If my team or I can be of any assistance during this difficult time, please let us know.”
UPDATE (5 PM): SHOOTING CONFIRMED
Officials provided more details in a press conference this afternoon. Waynesboro Police Chief David Shaw confirmed that a “suspicious individual” forced entry into the school.
One Westwood Hills Elementary staff member was injured by a gunshot, but has already been treated and released. The shooter, identified as 19-year-old Waynesboro resident Anthony I. Ignatiadis-Isabelle, is believed to have fatally shot himself inside the school.
“Today is the day every school system hopes they never have to deal with,” Waynesboro Superintendent Jeffrey Castle said. “Our safety and security protocols and procedures worked. Staff notified law enforcement immediately and our school executed lockdown procedures. Every student and staff member is safe and returned home to their families.”