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Off-Base Shooting Incident Briefly Closes Main Gate At JBSA-Lackland

 August 18, 2024

The main gate to U.S. Air Force Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland was temporarily closed early Saturday morning following a shooting incident involving unidentified individuals in a sedan.

The alarming incident occurred off-base, near the Chapman Annex Gate, where base security forces were performing routine duties, and though guards at the gate responded by discharging their weapons, no injuries were reported, as ABC News reports.

The gate was reopened after authorities determined there was no active threat to the installation.

According to a statement from Air Base Wing Public Affairs, the shooting occurred when individuals in a sedan fired shots at JBSA security forces stationed at the Chapman Annex Gate. The security forces immediately returned fire, leading to the temporary closure of the main gate as a precautionary measure.

San Antonio Police Leading Investigation into Incident

The San Antonio Police Department is currently leading the investigation into what officials have described as an "aggravated assault." The identities of the suspects involved in the shooting have not yet been released, and it remains unclear what motivated the attack.

Base officials emphasized that no one from the installation was harmed during the incident. "We did not sustain any injuries," an official told ABC News. The official also confirmed that there was no ongoing threat to the base, allowing the gate to be reopened after a brief closure.

Incident Occurred During Routine Security Duties

The shooting took place while JBSA security forces were performing their regular duties at the Chapman Annex Gate, a critical point of entry for the base. The guards' swift response helped to contain the situation, ensuring the safety of the personnel inside the base.

"The incident involved unidentified members in a sedan shooting at members of JBSA security forces team while performing duties at Chapman Annex Gate," Air Base Wing Public Affairs explained in their statement. The statement highlighted the prompt actions of the security forces in addressing the threat.

No Injuries Reported as Gate Reopens

Following the incident, base officials conducted a thorough assessment of the situation before deciding to reopen the main gate. The decision to close the gate was made out of an abundance of caution, prioritizing the safety of both military personnel and civilians in the vicinity.

While the gate closure caused a temporary disruption, base operations quickly returned to normal once it was confirmed that there was no active threat. The base has since resumed its regular security protocols, and the investigation by local authorities is ongoing.

Security Measures Remain Strict Despite No Active Threat

Even though the main gate has reopened, security measures at JBSA-Lackland remain stringent. The base continues to work closely with the San Antonio Police Department to ensure that all aspects of the incident are thoroughly investigated and that appropriate measures are taken to prevent future occurrences.

Officials have not released any further details about the suspects or the vehicle involved in the shooting. The investigation is still in its early stages, with authorities working to piece together the events that led up to the attack.

Community Alerted to Increased Security Presence

In the wake of the incident, the local community has been made aware of an increased security presence around JBSA-Lackland. Base officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

While there is no ongoing threat, the base is taking every precaution to ensure the continued safety of its personnel and the surrounding community. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining robust security measures at military installations.

Officials Express Gratitude for Community Support

JBSA-Lackland officials have expressed their gratitude for the swift response of the base security forces and the cooperation of the local law enforcement agencies. They also thanked the community for their understanding and support during the brief gate closure.

The base remains committed to the safety and security of its personnel and will continue to work closely with local authorities as the investigation progresses.

In conclusion, the shooting incident near JBSA-Lackland's Chapman Annex Gate resulted in a temporary closure of the main gate but did not cause any injuries or pose an ongoing threat to the base.

The San Antonio Police Department is leading the investigation, and the base has since resumed normal operations while maintaining heightened security measures. The local community has been alerted to the situation, and base officials have expressed their appreciation for the continued support of both military personnel and civilians in the area.