VIRGINIA — Roanoke police responded to a reported threat at William Fleming High School on Friday morning that was later determined to be a hoax “swatting” incident, according to school officials.
All students and staff members were reported safe following the response. Police said no suspicious activity was found at the school.
Officials said the threat was called into a local dispatch center, prompting an emergency response. During the investigation, William Fleming High School and several other schools in the division were placed on a “hold and secure” status as a precaution. The measure has since been lifted.
Roanoke City Public Schools said the incident was quickly investigated by school administrators, the Roanoke Police Department and the Roanoke Sheriff’s Office. Authorities preliminarily determined there was no credible threat.
A swatting incident involves a false report made to law enforcement with the intention of triggering a large police response.
School officials said an increased law enforcement presence will remain around the school throughout the day out of an abundance of caution.
In a message to families, the school division urged parents not to come to schools during emergency investigations, saying it can interfere with law enforcement operations and take resources away from the response.
Roanoke City Public Schools also said threats or jokes involving violence will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary or legal action.
