Murrieta School Threat Reported, Police Say [UPDATED]

MURRIETA, CA — Murrieta police on Monday said they are investigating yet another school threat that was making its rounds online. Officials say they got word of the threat Sunday night around 11:12 p.m., but do not believe it to be credible.

The threat, which was not specifically detailed, was posted on the social media site Snapchat, according to police. Murrieta Valley Unified School District officials tell Patch that Vista Murrieta and Murrieta Mesa high schools were the schools mentioned.

"Murrieta Police Department Detectives and School Resource Officers are currently investigating the threatening post," police said. "The threat is not considered credible at this time."

District officials said that they worked with police and, though the threat was not credible, they do take it seriously.

"It is sad that our students and staff members have to deal with the unnecessary fear that social media threats bring," District Spokeswoman Karen Parris said via email. "We continue to tell students and parents that if they see something or hear something that sounds questionable or dangerous, they should say something to Murrieta Police, a school administrator or report it using the Tip Line on the Murrieta Valley USD mobile app or by calling We Tip at 1-800-782-7463."

Police said that they take all threats seriously and will fill criminal charges against offenders "when probable cause exists." Anyone who may have more information about this incident was asked to call Murrieta Police Det. Jason Calvert at 951-461-6359.

"The police department works closely with the staff of every campus in our district on cases involving criminal acts on campus or potential violence toward a campus with the goal of creating a safe environment for all students, staff and visitors," police said.

— Patch file photo by Maggie Avants