By Kyler Johnson/ GG Editor-in-Chief

A manhunt was underway near North 27th Street and I-80 on Thursday afternoon which prompted several area schools to go into lockout, including North Star.

The suspect was involved in early morning homicide, where Lincoln Police said a dead body was found in the trunk of a car.

According to 10/11 News, at around 12:35 p.m. the search for suspect Sidney Jackson began. During that time, many juniors and seniors were out during third lunch. 

Sam Ugarcina (12) said, “As soon as we left Dairy Queen for lunch, there were almost 20 police cars that drove by, including an armored S.W.A.T. vehicle.” Katherine Kramer (12), who was also headed back from lunch, said, “We saw swarms of police cars.” 

Shortly after 1:15 p.m. North Star Principal Dr. Vann Price announced the lockout. At that time, all entrances and exits to the building were secured to keep students and staff safe. Around 2 p.m., Dr. Price instructed all students who typically leave after seventh period, to remain in the building until further notice and head to the Bayou.

Kramer said, “I’m late for work due to this lock-in, but it’s scary.” Kramer wasn’t the only student impacted.

Jhoselin Puentes (9) said, “I was scared and shocked, but it was a good idea for the lockout to keep students safe.”

Lincoln Police sent a Tweet at approximately 2:40 p.m. saying the suspect had been placed into custody. As the clock struck 2:41 p.m. North Star School Resource Officer Shane Jensen signaled to the faculty guarding the front entrance to open the doors. At the same time, Dr. Price announced the lockout had ended, and all students in the Bayou could leave.