Authorities end search for reported armed man in Porterville; no arrests made

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Thursday, August 27, 2026
Authorities end search for reported armed man in Porterville
The Porterville Police Department and Tulare County Sheriff's Office ended their search for a suspicious armed man after they received a report of someone walking around with a gun.

PORTERVILLE, Calif. (KFSN) -- Authorities have suspended their search for a suspicious man who prompted a large law enforcement response in Porterville on Thursday.

Multiple agencies responded to the area of Highway 190 and Martin Street at about 11 a.m. following a report of an armed person.

In response, Porterville police issued a warning to the community, and four nearby schools were temporarily placed on lockdown. Porterville College also alerted students and canceled classes for the remainder of the day.

A Tulare County Sheriff's Office BearCat armored vehicle was seen responding as authorities searched the area.

Police said that after an extensive search, officers were unable to locate the reported person.

Authorities said there is no threat to the public at this time.

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