Elizabeth police say threat that closed school likely not credible

Elizabeth High School was closed Feb. 21 in reaction to a threat made against the school.

Preliminary findings of an investigation suggest the threat was not credible, the Elizabeth Police Department announced in a news release in the early afternoon hours of Feb. 21.

The threat had warned there would be a shooting at the school the morning of Feb. 21, according to the news release.

“We will continue to investigate all possible leads in cooperation with state and national law enforcement agencies and work closely with Elizabeth School District to decide next steps," Police Chief Stephen Hasler said. "At this time, we have no indication there are any additional safety concerns."

The school district was considering whether athletic events and activities would go on as planned at Elizabeth High on Feb. 22. Plans called for the school to be open on Feb. 24.

The school's principal, Bret McClendon, sent a letter to the Elizabeth High community announcing the decision to close the school for a day:

"Due to a serious and specific threat against Elizabeth High School, a decision has been made to close the school on Friday, February 21. 

"Earlier this evening, the Elizabeth Police Department was informed of the threat by the Homeland Security Bureau, and in turn contacted school staff. Because of the nature of this threat, we believe the best course of action is to close Elizabeth High School tomorrow, Friday, February 21.

"While no threats have been made against any other schools in the district, there will be a heightened law enforcement presence at other Elizabeth Schools. Your child’s safety is our priority and we appreciate your understanding."