Halton police investigating a false report about a murder in Milton

Halton Regional Police say they are investigating a false report about a murder in Milton.

Police say around 10:50 a.m. on Tuesday, they received a call from a male who said he had shot and killed someone at an address near Maple Ave. and Thompson Rd. N in Milton.

Chris Hadfield Public School and St. Peter Catholic Elementary School, which are near the area, were placed in a hold and secure as a precaution.

ACTIVE INVESTIGATION – MILTON

Chris Hadfield Public School and St. Peter Elem. School have been put in a HOLD + SECURE due to an active investigation in the area.

This is precautionary only and there is no known threat to staff/students at either location. pic.twitter.com/XXfvE6YnCX

— Halton Police (@HaltonPolice) February 23, 2021

Police say the put several resources at the scene, including patrol officers and members of the Tactical Rescue Unit, K9 Unit and Criminal Investigations Bureau.

They determined the call was unsubstantiated and an incident of what is known as “swatting.”

“Swatting” is when a caller makes a false report with the goal of having numerous police and emergency resources dispatched. It is a criminal offence.

“Swatting calls involve the response of numerous police and EMS resources as well as dispatchers and communicators in our call centre who are all reserved for service to a variety of legitimate community needs,” said Halton police in a news release.

“False reports like these carry rippling impacts on our community’s safety and well-being.”

Police say they are working to identify the person responsible for the call.

Anyone with information is asked to call 905-825-4777.