Owensboro and Daviess County public schools have issued responses following potential threats made online, with officials at both districts saying there will be increased security this week as is protocol. The threat — which officials say appears to be part of a social media challenge — makes reference to a school with the same initials as an OPS building, though it’s unclear where the source of the threat came from. The investigation is ongoing.
According to the Owensboro Police Department, at approximately 11:20 p.m. Wednesday OPD received information in reference to a social media post threatening violence at an OPS campus.
“Detectives have taken steps during this investigation to include interviewing multiple individuals and securing search warrants for social media platforms,” according to a release. “The Owensboro Police Department takes threats such as these serious and will have additional officers present on Owensboro Public Schools property for the remainder of the week to ensure students have a safe learning environment.”
Anyone with additional information can call OPD at 270-687-8888, or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 270-687-8484.
Screenshots of a message obtained by Owensboro Times show the school initials “OMS” and Friday as the date, but there are no other indications the message originated in or near Owensboro, or that it’s a legitimate threat.
In the DCPS response, though they did not provide details of a specific message or threat, they wrote that “The Office of Homeland Security is aware of this situation and has confirmed that the message being shared in our community is the one being spread across the country,” adding that the threat was not credible. The DCPS Police Department and local agencies are still investigating the source.
Overnight, our district was made aware of a potential threat made online that made a reference to a school with initials that match one of our buildings.
The district immediately involved the Owensboro Police Department and began an investigation into finding the source of the threat. This investigation is still ongoing at this time. If you have any information about the post that has been circulating online, please contact the Owensboro Police Department at 270-687-8888.
As is protocol with any threat, real or perceived, we will have an increased law enforcement presence in our district the remainder of the week.
Thanks to our students and parents who have shared this information with us so that we are able to keep our students and staff safe. The district takes every threat as if it is real and we appreciate you being aware and sharing the information.
These types of threats have become more common and many districts across the nation are receiving similar messages as part of a “TikTok Challenge” that specifically targets December 17. We encourage parents to talk to their students about the seriousness of these threats and the penalties that come with making them.
We will update with any further information when we can, but safety is our top priority and we are following all safety protocols to ensure that in our buildings.
Many responses to that post on Facebook asked for more specifics, but OPS responded with:
We know many of you are asking about the specific post in question and while it is out there on Facebook, we are asking you to please not share it at this time as it is an ongoing investigation and we are working to confirm it’s authenticity at this time. When it is appropriate, we will share more information. Thank you for understanding.
We remain committed to keeping you informed about situations involving our school and especially any issues regarding the safety of our students.
We are aware of a concerning nationwide message posted on social media. This is a message that has been making the rounds on social media in communities across the country. Our DCPS Police Department and local law enforcement agencies are aware of these messages and are investigating the sources and providing enhanced security to our schools this week. The Office of Homeland Security is aware of this situation and has confirmed that the message being shared in our community is the one being spread across the country.
Although this threat is not credible, we know and understand the concerns and anxiety these situations create for our families. We want to reiterate the following important points with you:
First: Please talk with your child and emphasize the importance of sharing information or concerns regarding threats or the potential for dangerous behaviors with a trusted adult. Our SLEOs and administrators respond immediately to investigate and mitigate any issues of concern. In the event of an emergency, call 911. Anonymous reports may also be made by going to any DCPS district or school website and clicking the STOP Tipline logo in the upper-right corner, or go directly to that page here:
https://homelandsecurity.ky.gov/SafeSc…/Pages/default.aspx
Remind your child about the consequences of making threats. This is illegal and DCPS will pursue charges to the fullest extent of the law. Learn more here:
https://www.daviesskyschools.org/…/terroristicthreateni…
Social media is a powerful tool often used to influence others, and not always for the good. It is always important to remain vigilant when it involves these types of threats. Please take time to talk to your students about the influence of social media and the potential consequences of engaging in this type of behavior. We will always take every threat seriously. Individuals responsible for these disruptive behaviors will face the possibility of suspension or expulsion, and legal consequences for making threats.
We appreciate the students, parents and members of our community who partner with our DCPS staff and law enforcement to share concerns, and help identify and hold students accountable for their actions. We all have a responsibility and a role in keeping our students and community safe.
