Warren Mott High School closed Monday after threat following false shooting reports at homecoming dance
WARREN, Mich. (FOX 2) - Warren Mott High School was closed Monday following an incident and subsequent threat during the homecoming dance over the weekend.
Police said numerous students called 911 to report a shooting after hearing balloons popping at the dance on Saturday night. This led to police evacuating the school as they searched the building.
On Monday a bomb threat was made, leading to the school being closed.
"We did do a bomb sweep with our explosive dog today and found nothing of concern," said Lt. Scott Isaacson, Warren police.
According to the school district, though there were reports of a shooting and injuries, there was no evidence that happened.
Police are working to determine if someone popped the ballons to intentionally scare people.
"We don’t really know at this time where the reports of shots fired came from but that coupled with the balloons going off sent everyone into a panic."
The school district said an online petition was made to request that school be canceled Monday due to the homecoming crisis response. After someone made a threat to the school in response to the petition, the district decided to close.
"There was some kind of commotion inside quickly evolved into shots being fired there, it ultimately ended up being balloons popping."
Police are working to determine if someone popped the ballons to intentionally scare people.
"We don’t really know at this time where the reports of shots fired came from but that coupled with the balloons going off sent everyone into a panic."
There were no practices, games, or evening events on Monday.
District Supt. John C. Bernia released a statement, saying:
"To the students of Warren Mott - as your superintendent, your physical safety is a top priority for me. Your mental health is just as important. Please take some time Monday to rest, reflect, to talk with your loved ones about how you're feeling, and to be a friend to your peers. When you return to school on Tuesday, we will have adults you can talk with and resources to help you."