Local schools go into lockdown over threats

Emails put law enforcement on high alert across community

By THE TIMES NEWS STAFF

news@theeveningtimes.com

Schools across the nation continue to operate with the knowledge that the threat of violence on any school campus must be taken seriously, credible or not. Such was the case Thursday at the Academies of West Memphis after reports that someone could be planning to “shoot up the school” prompted a swift and cautious response.

Concerns first arose on Wednesday when parents reported that their children had received emails containing threats of mass violence at AWM. In light of this information, the district quickly sent out a mass “robocall” to alert the community and reassure them that the safety of students, faculty, and staff is the top priority.

“The West Memphis police department is currently addressing the situation and this is an active investigation. All questions should be directed to them,” the message stated.

Issuing threats of any kind, whether digitally, on social media, or via email, is considered a federal crime. The message emphasized that threats are not just pranks and can have serious consequences, including criminal charges and emotional stress on the school community.

In response to the threat, some parents chose to keep their children home for the day as a precaution. The AWM campus also saw increased security measures, with police presence from the West Memphis Police Department and the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department, as well as assistance from the FBI in the investigation.

West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon issued a statement addressing the incident and emphasizing the commitment to ensuring the safety of students and staff.

“Let me be clear: threats against our schools are not only deeply disturbing, they are criminal acts,” Mayor McClendon stated. “We are committed to ensuring that our schools are safe places for learning and growth. Anyone found responsible for this or any threat will face the full extent of the law.”

The high-alert conditions continued Friday as police presence was stepped up across the community. Other campuses were put on

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lockdown and police patrols in other parts of the city were increased, including the Marion Visual & Performing Arts Magnet, Steudlein Learning Center and West Memphis Christian School as a precaution. No incidents of violence were reported. Despite the threat ultimately being unfounded, Mayor McClendon urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement immediately. He emphasized the importance of the community’s support and cooperation in navigating the situation together.

Assistant Superintendent Willie Harris said the West Memphis Police Department, Crittenden County Sheriff’s of_ce and the Federal Bureau of Investigation would continue working together on the incident and the investigation is ongoing.

[Editor’s Note: See related “Viewpoint” on Page 4]