Licking schools close Monday due to bomb threat
Photo by Katey Wesley
It was business as usual at Licking schools on Tuesday after a weekend of concern.
A bomb threat involving the Licking School District was detected during law enforcement monitoring of online gaming platforms around 5:45 p.m. on Saturday evening, October 24. Within a few minutes of the threat, the FBI and local law enforcement had notified the district’s administration. The threat included specific timing during Monday’s school day, so classes were canceled in the district on Monday to protect the safety of students, staff and the school community.
Members of the Licking Police Department, the Texas County Sheriff’s Department and the 180th Military Police Detachment’s Military Working Dog (MWD) program responded to the campuses Saturday evening beginning around 9:14 p.m., and by 11:40 p.m., all district buildings had been searched by the specialized bomb/explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team.
Shortly after midnight, Licking Police Chief Pat Burton announced that “all school buildings were thoroughly searched by hand and with the assistance of explosive detection canines. Nothing suspicious was discovered, and all law enforcement personnel have cleared the scene.” He assured that charges would be sought in connection with the incident.
All staff were asked to remain off campus through Monday afternoon, and a secondary sweep of the buildings and buses was conducted.
Shortly after noon on Monday, an update was issued by the district stating that “the origin of the threat has been identified and appropriate action is being taken by the district and law enforcement authorities.”
“We can assure you that no danger exists with respect to the school or community,” the update went on to say.
The district expressed their appreciation to all of the law enforcement agencies involved for their quick response to the situation and for their extra attention to the campus and community.
“We understand the concern this situation may cause for our families and community,” a district statement stated. “Thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued support as we prioritize the safety of our school community.”
