“Ohio City in National Spotlight Faces Second Day of School Closures Due to Bomb Threat”
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WOIO) — Springfield officials have been forced to close school buildings for the second consecutive day following bomb threats, authorities confirmed.
The disruptions began on September 12, when city officials received an email containing a bomb threat at 8:24 a.m. The email, sent to multiple agencies and media outlets, triggered an immediate response from local and regional law enforcement. As a precaution, City Hall was evacuated while a thorough investigation took place.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our employees and residents,” stated the city of Springfield. “We are addressing this situation as swiftly as possible.”
After hours of searching, all buildings were cleared on Thursday. However, the threat led to the evacuation of Fulton Elementary students and staff, who were relocated to Springfield High School for early release. The Springfield City School District (SCSD) confirmed that Fulton Elementary was deemed safe following the investigation.
On September 13, the situation escalated as bomb threats targeting Perrin Woods and Snowhill Elementary resulted in the evacuation of these schools. Students were taken to an alternate district location for parent pick-up. Roosevelt Middle School had already been closed before the school day began due to the same threats.
Superintendent/CEO Robert F. Hill expressed gratitude for the cooperation of Fulton families and students, as well as the swift actions of the district’s staff and safety team.
“There are no additional threats to any SCSD buildings. The District Safety Team and Administration continues to work with local, state, and federal authorities to investigate the threats received regarding our schools.
In the event that additional and credible information is received at any time, the district will enact appropriate safety protocols. All threats to the Springfield City School District are taken seriously and will be prosecuted at the highest levels.
The SCSD is thankful for our Wildcat Family and we appreciate your continued support during this unprecedented and trying time. “
The Springfield Police Department has teamed up with the FBI to identify those responsible for the threats. Officials urge the community to report any suspicious activity to the Springfield Police Division at 937-324-7700.
