No Credible Threat After Gun Drawing Found At Marietta School

MARIETTA, GA — Authorities are investigating a graffiti incident that took place Wednesday at Marietta Sixth Grade Academy, Marietta Police confirmed to Patch.

The words, "Be ready," with a Jan. 19 date and a "simplistic drawing" of what seems to be a gun was found in a student bathroom, according to a letter sent to parents from Marietta City Schools Superintendent Dr. Grant Rivera. Patch has received a copy of the letter.

School officials told Patch the writing was located in a bathroom stall.

After viewing surveillance footage and conducting several student interviews, school officials said there was no credible threat.

The Marietta Police Department was called to the school and will have an increased presence at the school through the rest of the week, police told Patch.

The number of central office staff members at the school will also increase, according to the letter.

"I encourage each of you to share with your child the same advice we are given as adults: 'If you see something, say something,'" Rivera wrote in the letter. "At the same time, I ask for your discernment and judgment in what is shared with children regarding this adult email. Our children need to know that our entire community works together to keep our schools safe and that classrooms and hallways are filled with caring adults."

Patch has confirmed with the school system that all students and staff members were safe Thursday.