RCMP investigating threat made towards an Okanagan high school

Police in Vernon are investigating a report of a threat that resulted in the closure of a Vernon high school on Thursday, marking the second time that an Okanagan high school received a threat this past week.

At around 1:30 pm on May 15th, Vernon North Okanagan RCMP received a report about a threat that had been made against WL Seaton Secondary School in Vernon.

Officers attended the scene and helped with an evacuation of the building that the school’s administration had initiated to ensure the safety of staff and students.

Police have since determined that there is no credible threat to the safety of the school and normal activities have resumed.

“Our top priority is the safety and security of our schools,” said Const. Chris Terleski.

“We understand situations like this can cause concern and recognize the impact they have on the overall feeling of safety in our community.”

Earlier this week, police responded to an unspecified threat directed at AL Fortune Secondary in Enderby.

Members of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP attended the school and, as a precautionary measure, helped school staff arrange an early dismissal. Students were moved to an alternate location for pickup.

“A complete and thorough investigation has been conducted and at this point, no credible evidence has been found that would substantiate the threat,” stated Terleski in a news release sent out on Thursday.

“Any potential risk to the safety of our schools is treated with the highest of priority and we want to thank everyone for their assistance and co-operation.”