Lockdown at Manchester Elementary School lifted following arrest

SUMTER, S.C. (WOLO) — The Sumter County Sheriff‘s Office arrested a Pinewood-area man Monday morning after the suspect allegedly assaulted an employee with Manchester Elementary School earlier in the day. Ronald Brunson, 56, has been charged with third degree assault and battery as well as disturbing schools. According to reports, the suspect, who described himself as a disgruntled employee applicant who had been rejected for a custodial position at the school, came to Manchester Elementary shortly after the beginning of the school day Monday morning and assaulted a member of the school‘s custodial staff before leaving and then returning to the school a short time later. Administration officials placed the school on lockdown shortly after the incident began. No students were injured said school officials. The school employee assaulted in the incident did not require medical attention officials said. According to the report. family members of the suspect, have said he has a history of mental issues. Brunson was located at his home and placed in custody by deputies without further incident. He is being held at the Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center.