RCMP are investigating after a 16-year-old student posted a photo on Instagram of a firearm with the statement “school is going to be fun tomorrow” in regards to Niverville Collegiate.
Police said they received the report around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday.
“We do take things seriously it was investigated quickly to determine exactly what we were dealing with,” Paul Manaigre from Manitoba RCMP said.
“In this case a BB gun and not an actual firearm. But the threat was made in a way that people were concerned given the recency of events in the United States.”
Police have since located the teen and his BB gun.
A letter was sent out Wednesday morning to parents at the school about what happened.
No charges have been laid and the investigation is ongoing.
Global News obtained the following message sent to parents by the school principal:
Dear NCI Parents and Guardians,
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Early this morning we became aware of a threat made toward the Niverville Collegiate Institute (NCI) by a student. The threat took place online through a social media post. We take all threats of this nature very seriously, therefore local RCMP were contacted immediately.
RCMP have responded to the situation, and neutralized the potential threat. We have been assured that the school is safe, and that lockdown of NCI is not necessary.
The incident will be reviewed, and we will work with all involved to ensure our school continues to be a safe and respectful environment for students and staff.
Your child may become aware of the incident through social media or conversations with their peers. If so, we ask that parents/guardians take time to discuss the events of today with their children and address any anxiety they may have.
Should you have any questions about this incident or our safety procedures, I welcome you to contact me at 204-388-4731 or mkoester@hsd.ca
Michael Koester, Principal, Niverville Collegiate
Sources have said several parents were alarmed after receiving the notice, prompting a letter from Superintendent of the school division (see below).
A meeting will be held at the school Thursday evening.
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