Police safely clears several Niagara public schools after swatting prank

Niagara police said they responded to several email threats this morning made towards schools throughout the region.

Around 8:10 a.m. on Thursday, investigators placed Niagara area schools into a hold and secure to conduct an investigation out of caution.

The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) said in a statement that the schools that were affected include: the John Brant, Martha Cullimore, Peace Bridge, Ontario, Orchard Park, Richmond Street, Simcoe Street and Victoria Public Schools.

Officers said uniform officers attended the affected schools and determined the threats were not credible. Law enforcement said they were working with school boards to ensure safety.

All schools were safely cleared by 10 a.m., with the hold and secures being lifted at all involved schools.

Detectives suggest the disturbance appeared to be a swatting incident via email.

“We understand that situations like this can be concerning and want to reassure our communities that all threats are taken seriously and addressed in partnership with NRPS,” said the DSBN in the statement. “We appreciate the cooperation and patience of staff, students and families as safety procedures were followed.”

An investigation is underway and officers are asking anyone with information to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009346.

Members of the community who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477(TIPS).

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