Police rushed to Corry Station, part of Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida, on March 6, 2025, following alarming reports of what appeared to be an active shooter. The incident began just after 10 a.m. when law enforcement received calls about shots being fired, prompting immediate lockdown measures across the base.
The Naval Air Station Pensacola confirmed the situation, stating on their social media platform, X, "NAS Pensacola security forces and local authorities are responding to an active shooter situation onboard the base." This triggered an overwhelming response, with at least 200 vehicles from law enforcement, emergency response teams, and military units converging on Corry Station.
The lockdown created significant tension, as individuals on the scene described seeing multiple helicopters arriving, including life flight units. Bystanders relayed how heavily armed officers swept the grounds, as they combed through the area to locate any potential threats.
Fortunately, the situation began to take a different turn shortly after the initial panic. After conducting thorough sweeps of the base, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office declared there were "no signs of an active shooter" and found no injuries among service members or civilians. Sheriff Chip Simmons addressed reporters, saying, "Officers swept the building and did not find anyone injured," reassuring the public and emphasizing the swift response from all emergency agencies involved.
By midday, Sheriff Simmons estimated their presence would continue at the site for about another hour to provide reassurance and finalize their investigation. Emergency vehicles began leaving the scene, signaling to many observers the situation was under control. The reaction from officials showed how seriously these incidents are taken, especially on military installations, where the safety of all personnel is the utmost priority.
During the crisis period, Captain Chandra Newman articulated the commitment of the security teams at NAS Pensacola. He said, "Our Security team is responding swiftly and expertly with our local law enforcement partners. Our concern is always the safety and welfare of our service members and their families." This statement, alongside the actions of law enforcement, highlighted the protocols in place for handling such serious situations.
Due to the earlier confusion and the rapid comprehension of the situation, people on and around Corry Station could possibly find some comfort knowing no injuries occurred and the facility remained secure. Following the declarations from both the sheriff's office and the Navy, operations on the base returned to normal with security measures remaining heightened.
The incident serves as both a reminder of the vigilance necessary for maintaining safety on military installations and the rapid response capabilities of local law enforcement when faced with potentially dangerous scenarios. Fortunately, this day ended without tragedy, emphasizing the need for effective communication and decisive action during crises.
Overall, the response to the incident at Corry Station showcases how coordinated efforts between military and local law enforcement can successfully manage emergency situations. The reassurance offered by officials highlights the importance of their presence and readiness to act, reflecting their continuous commitment to security.