St. Mary’s High School remains closed as police investigate reported ‘threat of violence’
Posted May 29, 2024 07:45:36 AM.
Last Updated May 30, 2024 08:44:39 AM.
Police closed St. Mary’s High School in Kitchener on Wednesday for an investigation into a reported “threat of violence” and the school will not reopen on Thursday.
Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) spokesperson Cherri Greeno told CityNews 570 that they are working closely with school officials.
“Early this morning, we did receive a report to our communications centre indicating that a threat of violence would be carried out at the school,” said Greeno. “We did immediately get into contact with school board officials and together made the decision to close the school for the day as a safety precaution to ensure the safety of the students and the staff.”
The Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) released a statement, calling the school closure a “precautionary measure.”
“St. Mary’s High School is closed today as a precautionary measure due to a threat of violence made against the school. We are working closely with the Waterloo Regional Police Service as they investigate the matter. The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our top priorities. Out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to close the school for the day. Students are advised to review their current work and continue with their culminating activities at home.”
Greeno couldn’t comment on the nature of the threat but said it involved potential acts of violence against students and staff.
“Obviously the school’s priority, as is our priority, is the safety and wellness of the staff and students,” she said. “A decision was made right away to close the school while our investigators carry on the investigation to determine the credibility of the threat.”
On Wednesday afternoon, police said their investigation into the incident is ongoing.
St. Mary’s High School will stay closed Thursday as investigators continue to work to determine the validity of the threats made.
The WCDSB also issued a statement to families on the extended closure.
It read in part, “This additional time could aid the investigation and allow us to explore and implement any potential safety measures that may be required. Please note, this will mean that the annual Relay for Life event, scheduled for tomorrow, will be postponed until further notice.”
The board said well-being supports are also available for any students who need them. The school was already set to be closed on Friday as it’s a designated Professional Development Day.
