Long Reach on Lockdown After Bathroom Threat: Principal

COLUMBIA, MD — For the second time in a week, a threatening message has been written on a bathroom wall at Long Reach High School, according to the school's principal.

On Friday morning, a note went out to the Long Reach community stating that the school was on a modified lockdown as police and school officials investigate the incident.

"We located a threatening message written on a bathroom wall this morning," Principal Joshua Wasilewski wrote. "It was similar to the one that was found in a different bathroom last week."

The bathroom threat he referenced was found last Thursday, Dec. 8. After last week's threat, the school was placed on modified lockdown through Monday, Dec. 12, with additional police presence on campus.

During a modified lockdown, outdoor activities stop, exterior doors are locked and activities continue as usual inside the building. "This action is considered an appropriate response to violence, criminal activity, or any other situation that has the potential to affect the school site," according to the Howard County Public School System.

Photo of Long Reach High School is public domain image from author Wallstreethotrod.

Related: 2 School Threats in Columbia Reported This Week

Full message from Principal Wasilewski on Dec. 16

Dear LRHS Community,

We located a threatening message written on a bathroom wall this morning. It was similar to the one that was found in a different bathroom last week. As a precautionary measure we have placed the school on modified lock down. Please know that we are diligently working with the police department to investigate and determine the next steps.

I want to assure you that we are committed to maintaining the safety of our school. I will continue to keep you posted as information becomes available.

Sincerely,

Joshua R. Wasilewski, Principal