Threats At Columbia Schools Draw Increased Police Presence

COLUMBIA, MD — Several schools in Columbia were on alert Tuesday due to a threatening social media post. Principals sent letters to families notifying them that there had been a threat made on Snapchat.

Authorities learned about the social media post from a parent, according to Howard County Police Department spokeswoman Sherry Llewellyn.

"We did increase police presence at some schools today, although there was no information to substantiate a threat," Llewellyn told Patch Tuesday afternoon.

The alleged threat specifically referenced Harper's Choice Middle School, according to Principal Adam C. Eldridge, who wrote in a statement to families that it was not credible.

Officials from Swansfield Elementary School and Wilde Lake Middle School also notified families that a social media threat prompted increased police presence on campus on Tuesday, Nov. 13.

"The social media post did include a message referencing shooting up multiple Columbia schools," Swansfield Principal Laurel Porter wrote in a statement, adding that multiple parents had inquired. "There is no evidence to support the threat is credible," she said.

School officials assured parents that safety was the top priority and administrators would work with security to continue to be vigilant. Police presence may continue to be ramped up on Wednesday, and support staff will also be available.

Anyone concerned about potential violence at schools in Maryland can anonymously report information to Safe Schools Maryland in these ways:

• Use the Apple app
• Use Google Play
• File a report at www.SafeSchoolsMD.org
• Call 1-833-MD-B-SAFE (1-833-632-7233)

Tips will be assigned to local school safety personnel to take action, according to the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, which handles the Safe Schools Maryland tip program.

Patch file photo.