HANOVER, Va. – A concerned parent contacted the Hanover Sheriff’s Office at 10 p.m. Thursday night, in regards to a possible threat made at Oak Knoll Middle School. It was reported that a student was looking at a picture of a gun and made a threatening statement to another student.
The Sheriff’s Office investigated and notified school officials.
School administrators said that instruction will continue as normal today. However, as a precaution, Hanover deputies will have an increased presence at Oak Knoll Middle School.
A concerned parent contacted CBS 6 and said that her daughter was upset over the threat. A picture was circulating that showed a student looking at a picture of a gun.
"Yes and she called me from inside a bathroom crying," the mother wrote. "Some parents kept their kids home today."
One 7th grade student told CBS 6 that she contacted her father when she heard the news that "a kid was saying not to come to school today" because she thought he was going to do something scary.
"I told him that I was scared to be here and to pick me up as soon as possible," said Koa Murphy.
Hanover Schools released a letter that they said was distributed to parents.
Dear Parents and Guardians:
Overnight, we received a report that a student may have made a comment during the day yesterday that could be interpreted as a threat. As a precaution, the Sherriff’s Office was immediately contacted, and we continue to work with them to ensure that no threat exists at Oak Knoll. Instruction is continuing normally today.
I hope this information is helpful and addresses any concerns you may have. Thank you for your continued support of our efforts in providing a safe environment for our outstanding students.
"I was just so cared today because where I eat lunch is so big and I didn't know who it was and I was so nervous," Murphy said.
"The Sheriff’s Office values its partnership with the Hanover County Public Schools and our community and works closely with both to promote a safe educational environment for all students," said Sgt. James Cooper.
A threat at Prince George County High School also led to increased presence at the school today.
This is a developing news story. If you have a tip, contact us with the information.
