An emailed threat received Tuesday by some administrators at Howell High School, which caused the district to shut down out of an “abundance of caution,” was determined to likely have originated from outside the U.S., and does not appear to be credible, according to the Howell Police Department.
The threat to commit the “biggest mass shooting in Michigan history” was not directed at any specific schools, and the individual named in the email is not a Howell Schools student, according to a release authorized by Howell Police Chief Michael Dunn.
Responding immediately after being informed of the threat, school resource officers determined that its source is likely not from the U.S.; it also appears to be similar to other incidents of swatting taking place across the county. (Swatting is an act of harassment in which someone makes a false report of a serious law enforcement emergency — like a bomb threat or hostage situation — that results in SWAT teams responding.)
“We are aware of the apprehension and frustration that these threats may cause, but know that everyone involved in the matter immediately responded to ensure the safety of our community,” the release said. “We continue to urge parents to be aware of their children’s online activities as this incident appears to have connections to online gaming and social media activities.”
The investigation into the incident remains active.
