WCMS gymnasium ‘fire’

LISA HOBBS - News Editor

McMinnville Fire Department was called out to Warren County Middle School today due to a possible structure fire, as smoke was detected in its gymnasium.

Along with firefighters, Warren County EMS also responded.

“I was on a different call, but Captain Gribble said it was a freon leak from an AC until that was being worked on,” said McMinnville Fire Chief Marty White.

Firefighters used portable fans to ventilate the gymnasium.

Students were evacuated from the building and were safely standing along the fence-in area to the front of the school, before being moved to the stands at the football field.

Escorted off the property was a wayward reporter, not associated with Warren County Way, who decided to venture onto school property and impede firefighters’ efforts by asking questions.

Warren County Director of Schools Dr. Grant Swallows contacted Chris Sullens to express his appreciation for how Warren County Way handled the situation: getting close enough to snap a picture, no further, and leaving.

The situation at the school occurred at noontime on Sept. 3.

Update: Workouts after school that usually take place in the gymnasium has been cancelled and the volleyball game set to be played at 5 p.m. today has been moved to next Thursday, Sept. 10, at 5 p.m.