By Michael Lemley, The Exponent Telegram
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — West Virginia has seen a swath of recent school threats, prompting responses from school systems and law enforcement agencies, including the FBI.
A statement released by the FBI’s Pittsburgh office Wednesday afternoon said the bureau is “aware of recent threats directed toward multiple school districts across Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia.”
“We remain in close coordination with our law enforcement partners to provide assistance where appropriate,” the statement said. “That includes gathering intelligence, sharing information, tracking down leads, and working with partners to identify and mitigate threats quickly and effectively.”
One threat was directed toward Point Pleasant Jr/Sr High School in Mason County Tuesday evening, prompting heightened security on campus Wednesday morning.
“Authorities have been notified, and additional officers will be on patrol. Please know that the safety and security of our students and staff are our primary concerns,” Mason County Schools said in a statement.
Principal William Cottrill assured that there were “no safety concerns,” but that the school “will continue to take the appropriate steps to ensure the safety of all students.”
The Weirton Police Department issued a statement on social media Monday evening acknowledging a threat made by a sixth-grade student at Weir Middle School.
