Bristol closes schools after shooting threat at high school

Bristol public schools were closed on Friday after a social media post raised the threat of a shooting at both high schools.

Classes were also canceled in Bridgeport and Torrington.

Iris White, assistant superintendent of Bristol Public Schools, sent a letter to the district's parents via ParentSquare on Thursday evening regarding the threat to Bristol Central High School and Bristol Eastern High School.

“This evening, BPS was made aware of a social media post describing the threat of a school shooting at both of our Bristol high schools,” White said. “This information has been forwarded to Bristol Police for further investigation.”

“Out of an abundance of caution, Bristol Public Schools will be closed Friday. … All buildings will be closed.”

Schools across Connecticut close, teens arrested, teachers reprimand administrators amid ongoing social media threats

The closures in Bristol also applied to all sports games and practices on Friday. According to Sara Hale, interim athletic director at Bristol Eastern High School, all sports activities should resume on Saturday.

Earlier, schools in Ansonia were closed Thursday and several school districts across Connecticut were investigating social media threats, one of which led to charges against a 13-year-old girl.

Bridgeport Public Schools closed classes early on Thursday due to threats circulating online. Out of an abundance of caution, the district announced that all classes would be closed on Friday.

Torrington Public Schools also closed its schools on Friday after the district previously announced it would increase security measures.

“The Torrington Police Department is aware of numerous posts circulating on various social media platforms suggesting or threatening violence at Connecticut schools,” Torrington Public School Superintendent Michael Wilson said in a statement Thursday evening. “To date, no investigative agency has reported any credible threats. We are aware of one post that references a nearby school and we are assisting the Connecticut State Police in that investigation.”

“We continue to work closely with all schools in Torrington to ensure a safe environment for students and staff. Increased police presence at schools is expected in the coming days.”

Later Thursday, Wilson said that while the threat was still considered implausible, “we understand the emotional toll this has on our families and our community. Out of an abundance of caution, Torrington Public Schools will be closed (on Friday).”

Since the start of the school year, Connecticut schools have been plagued by social media threats, prompting numerous districts to increase police presence, forcing some schools to temporarily evacuate while others decided to close for the day.

On Thursday, White had already sent a message to parents and guardians asking them to help monitor their children's social media accounts.

“As we strive to create a safe and supportive environment for our students, we respectfully request your assistance in monitoring their social media posts,” White wrote. “Talking to your children about their online presence can help encourage positive interactions and ensure they are making responsible choices. Your support is invaluable in fostering a respectful and safe online community. Thank you for your partnership on this important issue.”

State Senator Stephen Harding, who represents several cities affected by recent school threats, issued a statement Friday demanding accountability.

“These threats against schools are causing upheaval, trauma and great unrest in our communities,” Harding said. “From Torrington to New Milford to Litchfield and across Connecticut, we cannot tolerate these devastating crimes. These are not 'pranks.' These are crimes. If you are caught threatening a school, you will face severe penalties and prison time. Don't even think about it. This loud and clear message must be spread throughout our state.”

Originally published: September 19, 2024 at 21:43