Popcorn Machine Triggers Evacuation Of Gaudet Middle School

MIDDLETOWN, RI — Gaudet Middle School was briefly evacuated Thursday morning following a popcorn machine malfunction that set off the fire alarm. Just before the alarm was tripped, school officials notified police that there was an unknown woman in the building.

According to a statement from superintendent Rosemarie K. Kraeger, Gaudet's Assistant Principal was told there was an unknown woman with two children in the school around 9:15 a.m. When a school official asked her to identify herself, she "did not cooperate." Per school protocol, the police were notified.

At the same time, the popcorn machine set off the fire alarm, prompting a building-wide evacuation. While students were outside, police and fire officials walked through the school to find the woman. Police were able to identify the woman as a contracted service employee.

After the woman was identified, police said the school was safe for students to return. During the evacuation, some classes walked to the church on Turner Road. All students were back in class by 10:10 a.m.

"Please be assured that safety is our number one priority," the statement concluded. "The Police, Fire and School Departments cooperatively work together for the safety of our school community."