A routine Thursday afternoon at Cooper Elementary School took an unexpected turn when a group of gingerbread men reportedly ran loose across the Spring ISD campus — just one day before students headed off for Winter Break.

According to school administration, the gingerbread suspects were spotted darting through classrooms, racing across the playground, and evading capture throughout the building. The situation escalated when the Spring ISD Police Department responded, launching a coordinated campus-wide pursuit that included ground units and helicopter support.

Fortunately, the incident concluded peacefully.

“One gingerbread suspect was successfully apprehended and detained,” said Spring ISD Chief of Police Matthew Rodrigue. “However, several gingerbread individuals remain at large. Our officers are continuing to monitor the situation and are hopeful all suspects will be in custody before Winter Break officially begins.”

The incident concluded peacefully, with no students, staff, or gingerbread cookies harmed, and the school day resumed as normal. The Spring ISD Police Department would like to remind the public to remain vigilant and to keep an eye out for suspicious cookie activity in the coming days.

“While this may not have been on anyone’s bingo card for the day, it’s a great reminder that learning should also include laughter,” said Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar. “We’re proud of the Cooper Elementary staff and students for embracing the fun, and grateful to our Spring ISD Police Department for ensuring everyone stayed safe — even with a few gingerbread suspects still on the loose as we head into Winter Break.”

The Spring ISD Police Department thanks the Cooper Elementary staff and students for their cooperation during this sweet but surprising situation, and wishes everyone a safe and joyful Winter Break.