ISP: Armed person barricaded inside Jacksonville home, middle school closed

JACKSONVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - A police standoff in Jacksonville closed a middle school and several roads Friday morning.

Jacksonville police told WAND News they were called out for an incident in a neighborhood behind Jacksonville Middle School at 1:30 a.m. Friday. Illinois State Police SWAT was called to help.

ISP told WAND News an armed person was barricaded alone inside a home in the 700 block of Park Street. It's not clear why police want to speak with the person or the nature of the "incident" police were initially called for.

ISP also said the incident is not a hostage situation.

jacksonville park street standoff — Police surround a home on Park Street in Jacksonville on April 24, 2026. (WAND photo)

WAND Reporter Carlee Bronkema said several officers on scene have long guns. Police have at least two tactical vehicles at a home in the front yard. Police have also put a drone up over the neighborhood.

It's unknown if neighbors have been evacuated.

The police situation prompted Jacksonville schools to cancel class at Jacksonville Middle School. Illinois College also closed off some nearby athletic fields but the school is still open. Several roads around the scene are also closed to traffic.

The school district also moved middle school bus pickup to a nearby elementary school.

In an email to school families and staff, Jacksonville Superintendent Steve Ptacek said police described the situation as "dangerous" and that it could extend into the school day. The missed day will not need to be made up since other schools throughout the district are open.

Police asked everyone to avoid the entire area including Hoagland Blvd., Park St., Daly Dr. and other surrounding streets.

Jacksonville police described the incident as "isolated," but didn't share any other details about the investigation.

This is a developing story.