Lyon County Sheriff Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2026

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office became aware of a planned protest involving a student walk-out at Fernley High School in Fernley, Nevada. Sheriff’s Office staff obtained additional details about the event and coordinated with school officials regarding the details. Sheriff’s Office personnel also began checking into other schools in the area to determine if they would be impacted or have similar events. During that check, they discovered that a group of students at Silverland Middle School were also planning to conduct a walkout.

Beginning the night of Feb. 4 and into the morning of Feb. 6, the day of the protest, the Sheriff’s Office received numerous phone calls, messages and other communication relaying possible threats and concerns from citizens in Fernley regarding the protest. The possible threats included threats of fights, shootings and other violent behavior. These threats were investigated and largely unsubstantiated. In response to the possible threats, in an effort to safeguard the life, safety and property of the citizens of Fernley, an increase in law enforcement presence was scheduled throughout the city and specifically, in the areas of the planned protest.

On Feb. 6, 2026, just prior to 1000 hours, approximately 50 students left Fernley High School on foot, carrying signs and flags. No weapons or violence of any kind were observed as the students left the school. The protesters proceeded northbound on U.S. Hwy 50 Alt to Main Street. They then moved east on Main Street to the roundabout where the protest took place. Simultaneously, approximately 20 students left Silverland Middle School and traversed Farm District Road to the roundabout to join the protest. Sheriff’s Office personnel in the area observed a small group of counter-protesters, also in the vicinity of the roundabout. The counter-protesters also appeared to be students.

Sheriff’s Office personnel and members of the community reported slowed traffic in the area, but no other incidents associated with the protest. No fights, weapons or acts of violence were observed or reported stemming from the protest. Sheriff’s Office personnel maintained a steady presence in the area throughout the afternoon, with the majority of the protesters dispersing by approximately 1500 hours. A smaller law enforcement presence remained in the area until the remaining protesters dispersed.

This release is for informational purposes only. Any additional questions regarding the Sheriff’s Office presence at this protest can be directed to Chief Deputy Mitch Brantingham or Sheriff Brad Pope at 775-463-6600.

Mitch Brantingham
Chief Deputy
Lyon County Sheriff’s Office