Continued Threats Plague Schools in Upstate and Western North Carolina
In an unwavering wave of nervous unease, Upstate and western North Carolina school districts are tackling persistent reports of threats to their institutions. This comes on the heels of various students, some as young as 12, being charged in relation to rumors of threats, actual threats, and the spread of misinformation about threats within school communities. The actions of these students follow in the chilling wake of the horrific Apalachee school shooting that resulted in numerous fatalities.
A Review of This Week’s Threats
Spartanburg County, Monday, September 16
On Monday in Spartanburg County, local police reported receiving a call about threats made on Instagram, stating that several schools would be targeted. Carver Middle School, McCracken Middle School, Dorman High School, and Spartan High were all purportedly named in the alleged threats. The person making the threats filmed themselves brandishing a tan firearm repeatedly on camera. This unsettling video has since been added to evidence for investigation by authorities.
Pickens County, Monday, September 16
In a parallel incident, reports of a suspected threat at Easley High School in the School District of Pickens County prompted precautionary measures. Principal Josh Oxendine released a statement informing the community of rumours regarding a cryptic threat amongst students. Administrators, in concurrence with local law enforcement, enforced a school-wide hold, which kept classrooms open but hallways clear as the threat was investigated.
Yancey County, Monday, September 16
The Yancy County Sheriff’s Office also dealt with an online threat, this time made via Snapchat. The post circulating through various districts and counties over several days reported a potential school shooter. The sheriff’s office confirmed no credible evidence was found, but emphasized every report is taken seriously and all precautions are utilized to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The recent surge in threats across these regions continues to cause alarm among educators, parents, and students. The grim backdrop of recent school shootings accentuates the seriousness with which these threats are received and handled. As a society, the increasing necessity for safety procedures in schools serves as a stark reminder of a pervasive issue that we must collectively address.
More Than a Local Issue
While this week’s threats have brought the issue close to home, this is part of a broader national problem. Schools across the country are wrestling with the challenge of keeping their students safe amid a backdrop of gun violence and threats targeted at schools. School districts are constantly working and evolving their safety protocols, often working hand-in-hand with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of their students.
