SWAT Situation Near La Jolla High School After Man Reportedly Seen With Gun in Vehicle
April 22, 2025 — La Jolla, San Diego, CA
A tense scene unfolded near La Jolla High School earlier today after San Diego police received reports of a man armed with a gun inside a parked vehicle in the vicinity. According to scanner traffic broadcast via the Scanner Radio app, dispatchers alerted units of a potential threat involving an individual believed to be armed and possibly suicidal. The man was reportedly spotted with a firearm pointed at his own head while sitting in his car with the windows rolled up.
The alarming reports quickly triggered an immediate response from law enforcement, including the San Diego Police Department and specialized units such as SWAT. Out of an abundance of caution, both La Jolla High School and Muirlands Middle School were temporarily placed on lockdown, prompting concern among parents, students, and staff.
Unfolding Situation
The initial alerts about the unfolding incident surfaced across scanner channels and social media platforms, where users tracking the situation in real time began reporting updates.
One Reddit user posted:
“Listening to dispatch now, person in car with windows up, gun in hand, pointed at own head.”
Another user described the situation as “active,” writing:
“Active S.W.A.T. situation in La Jolla. All I know so far, possibly suicidal male with gun, in his car.”
A third user shared a more detailed account, explaining that the individual was located just down the street from La Jolla High School and appeared to be holding a firearm in his lap while seated in his vehicle. The user added, “SWAT is on the way. Shelter in place.”
Response and Lockdowns
Emergency response teams swiftly arrived at the scene, setting up a secure perimeter and coordinating through tactical channels. The lockdowns at La Jolla High and Muirlands were precautionary measures while police assessed the threat and attempted to establish contact with the man.
By mid-afternoon, both schools lifted their lockdowns, indicating that the immediate threat to students and staff had passed. However, law enforcement has yet to release an official statement confirming the outcome of the situation, whether the individual has been apprehended, or if he received medical assistance.
As of this writing, it remains unclear whether the gun was discharged at any point during the standoff, and authorities have not disclosed if any injuries occurred. The identity of the individual involved has not been released.
Community Reaction
The incident rattled the typically serene coastal community of La Jolla. Local residents took to platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) to share what they were seeing and hearing, including concerns over the safety of children in nearby schools.
“It’s terrifying not knowing exactly what’s going on but hearing helicopters and sirens nearby,” wrote one local parent. “Just glad the schools are taking this seriously.”
Another echoed similar concerns:
“Really hope this man gets the help he needs. Mental health situations like this are heartbreaking.”
Awaiting Official Confirmation
At this time, the San Diego Police Department has not issued a formal press release or comment about the status of the situation. News outlets continue to monitor the scene and await more information.
The story remains developing, and updates will be provided as soon as authorities release additional details. Anyone in the area is advised to avoid the immediate vicinity of La Jolla High School until officials confirm the area is fully secured.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available.
Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free and confidential support 24/7.