'Bomb Threat' At West Orange School Not Credible, Authorities Say

WEST ORANGE, NJ — West Orange police responded to Roosevelt Middle School on Monday after getting a report about a possible bomb threat, which turned out to be “non-credible,” authorities said.

A town spokesperson released the following statement about the incident:

“West Orange police patrol units were dispatched to Roosevelt Middle School earlier today on the report of a possible bomb threat. It happened after school counselors were made aware of an Instagram group chat involving several Roosevelt Middle School students. In the group chat an unidentified Instagram user asked if any students will be taking the late bus. After inquiring, the user stated that they were going to bomb the bus.”

He continued:

“With the specific threat referring to the Roosevelt Middle School buses, patrol units immediately responded to the Board of Education bus depot on Standish Avenue. The Essex County Sheriff Department’s bomb unit and K-9 were also dispatched to the scene. A sweep was conducted, which proved negative for any explosive devices onboard any West Orange Board of Education buses.”

He concluded:

“Authorities acted quickly and deemed the threat to be non-credible. The West Orange Police Department remained on scene and will follow up with an investigation. Police officers were also at the school to provide a presence for dismissal. There is no ongoing threat to public safety, and School Superintendent [C. Lauren Schoen] was made aware of the incident. A check of all buses did not disrupt the afternoon dismissal of any West Orange Schools. All after school activities at Roosevelt Middle School, however, were cancelled for the day. Updates, if needed, will follow pending an investigation.”

Authorities said that anyone with information can contact the West Orange Police Department at (973) 325-4000. To report an emergency or a crime in progress, dial 9-1-1.

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