Reported Threat Against Middle School In Delco Under Investigation: Police

RIDLEY PARK, PA — As police continue to investigate an online threat against a Delaware County middle school, an AI-powered crisis alert system appeared to share false information Friday about an arrest.

On Thursday evening, Ridley Middle School officials received a "concerning message" on Safe2Say about "a possible firearm being brought to school" on Friday, said Principal John Theodosiades.

An anonymous post contained similar information in a Facebook group for parents of Ridley Middle School students, Theodosiades said.

Law enforcement is investigating whether the threat has merit, said Ridley Park's police chief.

"In this day and age of social media, a statement or rumor can roll down hill and cause anxiety and concern," said Chief William Thomas. "We are currently investigating will see if there is any merit to the statement. Threats will not be tolerated and anyone involved in criminal activity will be prosecuted."

On social media, several parents of Ridley Middle School students said they'd keep their children home from school.

Furthermore, an online posting falsely claimed that a student was arrested. But no arrests have been made, Thomas said at around 2 p.m. Friday.

The false information appears to have circulated on Samdesk, an AI-powered tool that monitors and sends crisis alerts. The alert sourced a 13-year-old CBS News article about a different case involving a threat against Ridley Middle School.

"This posting was put on the internet today. It is not factual," Thomas said. "There have been no arrests made by the internet child abuse task force nor by the Ridley Park Police Department in reference to this incident. If you have any information pertaining to this incident, please contact Ridley Park Police Department."

It's unclear what caused the posting to circulate.

Theodosiades advised parents to remind students not to spread rumors or repeat unverified information. In a letter to families, he said students should immediately report any concerning messages or information to a trusted adult, teacher, school administrator or law enforcement.

"Please also remind students that making threats—even as a joke— has serious consequences," Theodosiades said.

Ridley Middle School is part of the Ridley School District, which serves students from Ridley Township, Ridley Park and Eddystone.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.