LEWISBURG, W.Va. (WVDN) – Greenbrier County Schools are among the latest to face threats as part of a troubling trend affecting schools across several states, including Tennessee, West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Both Greenbrier East and Greenbrier West high schools were named in the threats, which authorities believe are part of a broader string of incidents.
The list of targeted schools allegedly originated from a Snapchat post, screenshots of which are now circulating on various social media platforms. Authorities are working to determine the validity of the post and its connection to similar threats made in other states.
Screenshots of the alleged threats have been obtained by WVDN. In them, the poster repeatedly states that students should stay home for their own safety. Reportedly, these messages were directed at students in the areas of Winchester Virginia, Berkeley County and Frederick County. We have not confirmed the validity of these messages at the time of publishing.
In a statement released this morning, Greenbrier County Schools said, “Local law enforcement has been notified of threats directed toward high schools in the county. A Homeland Security investigation suggests that these threats may be part of a larger trend affecting schools across West Virginia and other states. At this time, we have no reason to believe that these threats are credible. Out of an abundance of caution, we will be increasing security measures in our schools over the next few days.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) released a statement on the recent threats saying, “Issuing a threat of any kind promoting violence can be a violation state and/or federal law.” The statement goes on to say that those found responsible “will be thouroughly investigated.”
While the threats are reportedly not being deemed credible, officials remain vigilant. The local investigation, led by Homeland Security, is part of a broader inquiry into threats made against schools throughout the region.
Parents, students and staff are urged to remain calm but cautious as the investigation continues. Security measures have been increased at Greenbrier County high schools as a precautionary measure.
No further details about the nature of the threats or social media posts have been released at this time.
Anyone with information about these threats and anyone who notices suspicious activities that could lead to a threat is asked to contact their local 911 center or contact the FBI directly at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). The FBI also offers the ability to leave a tip through an online form found on their website.
