Shooting Threat Found In Haverford Middle School Bathroom

HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP, PA — A message suggesting a school shooting at Haverford Middle School Friday, as well a new troubling social media "challenge," has the School District of Haverford Township on alert.

According to Superintendent Maureen Reusche, the message was found in a bathroom of the middle school and indicated there may be a shooting in the school Friday.

In a letter to the school community, Reusche said additional security is in place for dismissal Thursday and said increased police presence will be in place at all district buildings Friday, as all schools will be open and operating on a normal daily schedule.

"We immediately contacted the police and they are investigating," she said. "They do not believe students are in any immediate danger."

Reusche said the district is closely watching the situation but does not believe there is a credible threat to the district.

The message found in the bathroom comes as a nationwide TikTok "challenge" has schools and law enforcement on alert.

This new "challenge" encourages violence this Friday at schools around the country, but does not name any specific targets.

Nearby, Upper Darby School District issued a statement to the community about the disturbing social media trend.

"As we have communicated previously, we are aware of these challenges and are monitoring news outlets, social media and other sources to stay abreast of trends and new information," Upper Darby School District Superintendent Dan McGarry said in the statement. "At this time, we do not have any direct threats against our schools or district, and our students are not involved in these social media posts."

Reusche encouraged anyone to notify a school staff member or trusted adult right away and continue to use Safe2Say to report any threats.

"As always, thank you for your partnership as we work to ensure a safe, secure, and positive learning environment for our students," she said.

Patch has reached out to Haverford Police for more details and will update the story when additional information is provided.