On Thursday, April 23, 2015 at approximately 3:00 p.m. a threatening message was discovered in a restroom on the Tuscola High School campus. The campus was evacuated and law enforcement officials from the Haywood County Sheriff’s Department began clearing the campus and investigating the matter. At 4:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2015, Tuscola High School was cleared by law enforcement officials. The campus returned to a regular schedule on Friday, April 24, 2015.

The investigation of the matter by school and law enforcement officials has resulted in the identification of the individual or individuals who are likely responsible for the threatening message. As the investigation proceeds, the school will follow public school law and school board policy in issuing appropriate discipline. In matters like this, law enforcement actions are handled separately by law enforcement agencies.

“We are thankful the campus was safe and there was never any actual danger for our students and staff,” said Travis Collins, principal. “When threatening messages occur we will always follow our safety procedures and follow every investigative lead to protect the safety of our students and staff.”

“We are thankful for the rapid response from the school staff and the Haywood County Sheriff’s Department,” said Dr. Anne Garrett, superintendent. “We take matters like this very seriously.” We use a variety of investigative practices in an attempt to determine what actually occurred, issue appropriate discipline and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.”

Since student confidentiality is protected under North Carolina General Statute 115C and the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the school district cannot disclose additional information regarding the alleged individuals involved.

Contact: Dr. Bill Nolte, Associate Superintendent

PR 042415 Investigation of Threatening Message Produces Results