At 11:50 a.m. on Wednesday, the DeRidder Police Department received a call in regards to an individual in an “altered mental state” expressing the desire to harm himself and others and “possibly blow something up,” according to a release from the department.

In the release, DPD stated officers made contact with the individual and an item of concern with “possible explosive capabilities” was found in his possession.

DPD took the individual into custody and transported him to a medical facility for evaluation. The possibly explosive item was secured in a safe location and is pending removal by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.

DPD confirmed that all residents at Westwood Manor Nursing Home, near where the man was located, are safe.

At 1:38 p.m., the Beauregard Parish School Board released a statement confirming that Pine Wood Elementary was placed in a precautionary lockdown due to safety concerns, and will remain in lockdown until the item is safely removed. Students are continuing class indoors.

High School Drive will remain closed to through traffic until the item is removed by EOD.