Lafayette County, MS, August 15, 2025
News Summary
Lafayette County schools were briefly placed on lockdown following an unsubstantiated report of an escaped convict. The lockdown, intended for community safety, was lifted after authorities confirmed the sighting was not credible. The prompt response from law enforcement and community vigilance ensured the safety of students and residents. They encourage ongoing awareness to maintain security amid such incidents.
Lafayette County, MS – Lockdown Lifted Following False Alarm About Escaped Convict
Lafayette County schools were placed on lockdown on the morning of March 7, 2025, after a report of an escaped convict was deemed not credible. The lockdown began around 8:50 a.m. following an anonymous call received by the Oxford Police Department, which then notified the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office about a reported sighting of a person resembling Nevin Whetstone, a 71-year-old prisoner who escaped from Parchman prison.
Authorities responded quickly, conducting an extensive search of the area, particularly around Highway 6 East and F.D. Buddy East Parkway, where the sighting reportedly occurred. The precautionary lockdown was implemented to ensure the safety of children and the broader community while law enforcement investigated the tip.
After careful consideration and thorough investigation, officials determined that the alert concerning Whetstone’s whereabouts was unfounded. As a result, law enforcement officials lifted the lockdown.
Safety remains a top priority for the local authorities, who express gratitude for the swift action from the Oxford Police Department and the Lafayette County Emergency Management team. The situation highlights the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting in maintaining safety within the community.
Background on Nevin Whetstone
Nevin Whetstone is currently serving a life sentence for the 1983 murder of Loretta Darlene Steele. He escaped from the Mississippi State Penitentiary on March 4, 2025, prompting a heightened alert within the region. This incident comes on the heels of another report in Prentiss County the day before, which also turned out to be unreliable.
In light of these events, the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to remain watchful and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement to help ensure community safety.
Key Points
| Date of Incident | Time of Lockdown | Suspect | Status | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 7, 2025 | 8:50 a.m. | Nevin Whetstone | Not Credible | Highway 6 East & F.D. Buddy East Parkway |
FAQ
What prompted the lockdown in Lafayette County schools?
The lockdown was initiated due to a report of an escaped convict, Nevin Whetstone, who was thought to have been sighted locally. However, the sighting was later confirmed to be unfounded.
Who is Nevin Whetstone?
Nevin Whetstone is a 71-year-old convicted murderer who is serving a life sentence for killing Loretta Darlene Steele in 1983. He escaped from the Mississippi State Penitentiary on March 4, 2025.
What actions have been taken to ensure community safety?
Law enforcement conducted an extensive area search during the lockdown. Community members are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to help maintain safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lafayette County Schools Lockdown After Escaped Convict Tip
Escaped Inmate Nevin Kerr Whetstone Captured
Lafayette County Schools Locked Down Amid Escaped Convict Alert
Oxford Witnessed Unexpected Prison Escape and Rapid Arrest This Week
Escaped Inmate in Lafayette County Arrested After Dramatic Car Chase and Crash
Additional Resources
- Oxford Eagle: Lockdown at Lafayette Schools Lifted
- Wikipedia: Lockdown
- WTVA: Possible Sighting of Prison Escapee
- Google Search: Lafayette County lockdown
- The Daily Mississippian: Lafayette County Schools Cleared
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lockdown
- KCTV5: Middle School Lexington Lockdown
- Google News: School lockdown
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
