BAY MINETTE – Lockdowns were reported at several Baldwin County schools Tuesday after authorities received hoax calls reporting possible shootings or hostage situations, education officials said.

Eddie Tyler, superintendent of education, said all reports have been investigated and no threats have been found on any campus.

“Throughout the day, 911 has received numerous calls regarding either a shooter on campus or children being held hostage at various schools. All of these instances have been responded to by law enforcement and investigated only to find no threat on campus,” Tyler said in a statement sent to parents.

He said law enforcement officials report similar calls being made to schools across the state.

“They believe this is a hoax as it is impacting other counties around the state and also private schools. Local law enforcement is working closely with state and federal agencies at this moment to try and determine the source of these calls,” Tyler said.

Tyler said that while no students or school employees were in danger, the calls took law enforcement across the region away from other duties.

“I cannot begin to tell you how much this angers me! This type of action takes law enforcement away from our communities and a response like this on our campuses can create serious concern and jeopardy. Having said that, I also want to let you know that we are going to respond to each and every call we receive regardless of whether we believe it is a hoax or not. We cannot take that chance,” Tyler said.

One of the school where a threat was reported was Bay Minette Elementary School.

No threats were found at the school and the lockdown was lifted later that morning, Danielle Ludlow, school system spokeswoman, said.

“We are investigating those threats and we investigate every threat that comes into the school system,” Ludlow said. “But as of now, it is a hoax. We are going into the school and making sure that everyone is safe and secure this time.”

Tyler asked that parents not pass along rumors about the calls following the reports Tuesday.

“Please help us keep the rumor mill from spreading false information. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation,” Tyler said.