By: Reney Waters, Follow South Jersey News Reporting Intern
VINELAND, N.J. — Vineland Public Schools shut down on Thursday, September 30, due to a social media threat regarding a possible shooting to all local schools according to nj.com.
“I will shoot up the school Thursday, September 30. Whoever reads this, this is good warning. This is not a joke, this is an active threat,” the social media post stated.
Gia Messore district spokesman made sure to follow all Vineland Police Department (VDP) protocols recommended by the Vineland Police Department (VPD) to ensure all students will be returning to a safe and secure environment.
According to the district’s website, “Vineland Police detectives began an immediate investigation. Upon receiving an update from law enforcement, the decision was made to close schools.”
“Out of abundance of caution, all Vineland Public School buildings will be closed tomorrow,” the district announced in a Facebook post Wednesday evening, adding that classes would not be conducted virtually on Thursday,” Messore said.
The district cited a “Tik Tok” monthly challenge that encourages destruction, violence, assault, and sexual harassment as possible motivation for the theat.
The district also asked the community to check in with family members and have an honest conversation about the impact of these behaviors and that all actions have consequences. Vineland Public Schools said that they will consult the police department to file charges, expel guilty individuals, and demand restitution.
The district reopened on Friday, October 1.
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