AI-Created Rumors Spread In West Orange After School Lockdown, Shelter-In-Place

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Even one school lockdown can make a community anxious. And having a shelter-in-place less than two weeks later can ramp those concerns up to “unsettling and frightening.” But in today’s fast-paced world – where information can spread instantly on social media – it’s important to make sure the news you’re getting is accurate and not just an AI-created rumor, officials in West Orange say.

The town’s mayor and high school principal have each issued statements in the wake of two recent incidents at West Orange High School.

A temporary lockdown took place at the high school on Jan. 5 after a student allegedly threatened other students during a verbal argument. School administrators called for a shelter-in-place, which was followed by a lockdown. No students or staff were in danger at any time, principal Oscar Guerrero said.

Another incident took place on Jan. 14. A shelter-in -place was called at the high school after reports emerged that a student was possibly in possession of a weapon or a weapon accessory – which turned out to be an empty magazine. No firearm or ammunition was found, authorities said.

Guerrero wrote a letter to the community on Friday, re-emphasizing that no weapons were found during either incident. The principal also said that AI-generated social media posts and doctored images have fueled rumors about what happened – and increased fear and anxiety levels.

He wrote:

“Over the past two weeks, our school community has experienced two concerning situations that resulted in a shelter-in-place and/or lockdown. I want to begin by clearly and directly stating this important fact: in both cases, no weapons were ever found or recovered. At no point were guns found on any individuals, in the school building, or anywhere on campus.

“While we have not had one situation like this in my years as principal at WOHS, I fully recognize that having two incidents occur so close together is unsettling and frightening. As a father with students in this district, I share your concern. As the proud principal of West Orange High School, I also want to reassure you that students and staff were safe at all times during both situations, and that established safety protocols were followed carefully and appropriately.

“In today’s world, where information spreads instantly, it is more important than ever that we support one another and rely on accurate, verified information—especially during moments of uncertainty. Yesterday, several AI-generated and doctored images circulated across social media, fueling rumors that understandably increased fear and anxiety for students, families, and staff. While we cannot control what others create or share online, we remain committed to providing timely, factual communication and will always prioritize the safety of our students and staff above all else.

“I also want to acknowledge the emotional toll these situations can have. In response, counseling services have been made available for students and staff who may be experiencing stress, anxiety, or emotional effects related to these events. Our school counselors, social workers, and support staff are available and ready to help, and we strongly encourage anyone who feels the need for support to reach out. Caring for the emotional well-being of our community is just as important as ensuring physical safety.

“I also want to acknowledge concerns about communication during situations like this. I recognize the importance of clear and accurate information for staff, students, and families. When circumstances allow, information is shared within the building to reduce uncertainty. We also understand that limited information can increase stress. At the same time, there are situations in which safety protocols require restricted use of intercoms and phones to protect everyone involved.

“I have read the emails, reviewed comments on social media, and spoken directly with families, staff, and students. I hear you. Your concerns are valid, and I am deeply committed to ensuring that West Orange High School remains a safe, supportive place to learn and work.

“Thank you for your continued trust, partnership, and care for our students and school community.”

MAYOR: ‘STUDENTS AND STAFF WERE ALWAYS SAFE’

On Monday, the town’s mayor, Susan McCartney, issued a statement to the community about the incidents at West Orange High School.

According to the mayor, school staff and local police carefully and appropriately followed safety protocols. McCartney also pointed to the spread of inaccurate details on social media, saying that they have created “unnecessary fear” in West Orange.

Here’s what the mayor had to say about the incidents:

“Over the past two weeks, our West Orange High School community has experienced two serious and understandably concerning situations that resulted in shelter-in-place and lockdown procedures. I want to clearly reaffirm the facts, as stated by Principal Oscar Guerrero and confirmed by the West Orange Police Department: in both instances, no weapons were found or recovered. At no point were firearms located on any individual, inside the school building, or anywhere on campus.

“While these incidents occurred close together and understandably heightened fear and anxiety, students and staff were always safe. Established safety protocols were followed carefully and appropriately through the coordinated efforts of West Orange High School Administration, School Resource Officers, and the West Orange Police Department.

“I echo Principal Guerrero’s message regarding the importance of relying solely on accurate, verified information released by school officials and law enforcement. In recent days, rumors, social media speculation, and even AI-generated and doctored images circulated online, contributing to unnecessary fear. While misinformation can spread quickly, it does not reflect the facts and only serves to intensify already stressful situations.

“The emotional impact of these events is real, and I commend the school district for making counseling and support services available to students and staff. Supporting the emotional wellbeing of our school community is just as critical as maintaining physical safety.

“I also acknowledge the concerns raised regarding communication during emergencies. While we always strive for transparency and timely updates, there are moments when safety protocols require limited use of intercoms and phones to protect students and staff and allow first responders to do their work without distraction.

“I want our families to know: your voices have been heard. Your concerns are valid. The Township, the West Orange Police Department, and the West Orange Public Schools remain united in our commitment to continuous preparedness review and improvement to ensure our schools remain safe, supportive environments for learning.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to Principal Guerrero, Superintendent Moore, the school administration, educators, support staff, counselors, and to West Orange Police Chief Feula and the WO Police Officers for their professionalism, care, and unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of our students.

“The safety of our children will always remain our highest priority.”

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