TREDYFFRIN, PA — A "swatting" call placed Conestoga High School on lockdown Monday morning during a wave of similar incidents reported at schools across the Philly region, officials said.
Tredyffrin Police announced the school was in lockdown after a "potential swatting call" shortly after 8 a.m. — minutes into the school day. Swatting refers to a report of a bogus emergency meant to draw a major law-enforcement response to a targeted location.
The lockdown was lifted within an hour after police confirmed the school was safe.
Law enforcement determined that a swatting call took place, according to the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District.
"We are grateful for the prompt response from the Tredyffrin, Easttown, and East Whiteland Police Departments," the district said in a statement. "Out of an abundance of caution, you may notice an increased police presence at our schools today."
Multiple schools throughout the region reported similar "swatting" threats, prompting lockdowns Monday morning.
Police said the same call has impacted several school districts in the area, including Bucks, Montgomery, Chester, Berks, and Delaware counties, as well as Philadelphia.
Tredyffrin/Easttown Middle School had "restricted movement" inside the building Monday morning because it's near Conestoga High School, according to the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District.
All Tredyffrin/Easttown students are safe, according to district officials.
"We understand that situations like this can be unsettling for students and families," the district said. "School counselors are available throughout the day to provide support to students as needed."
Authorities are investigating.
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