The threat of a school shooting at Strathroy District Collegiate Institute was unsubstantiated and untrue, Strathroy-Caradoc police said Thursday.
Officers began investigating the alleged safety concern just after 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, but after interviewing several students and their parents determined that no specific or direct threat was made by any student. According to investigators, the sharing of inaccurate information on social media created a frenzy that led the community to believe the school was unsafe.
Concern surrounding the dangerous threat began growing as the rumour was shared on a local Facebook page on Halloween night, prompting some concerned parents to keep their kids home from school the following day. Police were also inundated with calls about the situation.
"Police and school officials worked collaboratively during the course of the investigation to provide relevant and updated information as the investigation unfolded," police said in a statement. "Events of this nature are highly sensitive and create immense attention for students, parents, and community members; police investigations require thorough inquiry and examination to determine the true facts."
Investigators offered reassurance that they will continue to work with school administrators, students, staff, and community members to ensure the school remains a safe place.
