Canadian Man In Custody Over Upper Merion School Threat: FBI

UPPER MERION, PA — Authoriites believe a man in Canada sent the threats which shut down the Upper Merion School District last Friday. He's now in custody.

The threat was directed at Upper Merion Superintendent John Toleno via Twitter on Thursday evening, Jan. 17. "I hope you know I’m coming to school tomorrow with a glock 18 and laying down as many kids as I can," the message read.

An initial investigation by local police traced the message to Montreal, Canada. Upper Merion Police enlisted the help of the FBI to track the suspect down. On Friday, Montreal police and the FBI Legal Attaché Office there arrested him.

"This suspect is currently being questioned by Canadian authorities," Upper Merion police said in a statement. "Based on what we know so far, we believe he is the person responsible for the threatening tweet that was sent to Dr. Toleno’s Twitter account."

It's not yet known what, if any connection the man has to Upper Merion.

"We still do not know why this individual chose my Twitter acct. to post

this threat," Toleno said Monday.

Police said they have no reason to believe Upper Merion schools are in any danger, and schools will be open on Tuesday, Jan. 22. A "more visible" police presence will be in place Tuesday as well, school officials said.

"Although I am very disappointed by the actions of this person, I am so very proud

of the resolve of this community during this difficult time," Toleno added in a statement. "We as a district will continue to teach and embrace all that is good in this world and not allow this one act of senseless stupidity to define our Community and School District as I believe that “good shall always prevail over evil."

Details regarding the suspect and any potential charges will be provided as they become available.

Patch file photo