Emporia Police officers have detailed the situation leading to an extra law enforcement presence at Emporia Middle School through Thursday.
Capt. Ray Mattas says officers were notified about a possible threat to the school around 7:15 pm Wednesday. Mattas says a student had threatened to bring a gun to school Thursday and was telling students via email not to attend.
Mattas says officers have found the student who allegedly made the threats, adding the student had no access to firearms and no students were ultimately at risk. However, the case has been referred to the Lyon County Attorney’s Office for review and possible charges. Mattas says officers cannot comment on whether the student was detained or confined.
Middle School Principal John Martin says the school is “taking every precaution to ensure a secure environment for all.” Martin also says vigilance is important in keeping schools safe, reminding people that if they see something, say something.
This comes at a time when school districts across Kansas have been receiving social media threats this month, including a threat deemed not credible that was focused on Burlington Middle School two weeks ago.
6 am Thursday: Extra law enforcement presence announced at Emporia Middle School after social media threat
Extra law enforcement will be around Emporia Middle School on Thursday after at least one social media threat about school violence.
In an email to parents, Principal John Martin says Emporia Police officers have been told about a local threat and have been investigating. The nature and severity of the threat is not being announced.
This comes at a time when school districts across Kansas have been receiving social media threats the past two weeks.
Martin says Emporia Middle School is “taking every precaution to ensure a secure environment for all,” including extra police presence Thursday. Martin also says vigilance is important in keeping schools safe, reminding people that if they see something, say something.
If you have information about this case, call the Lyon County Emergency Communications number at 620-343-4225.
