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PORTSMOUTH, N.H. (WBZ NewsRadio) — The City of Portsmouth, New Hampshire shut down all schools Thursday over a threat of violence, schools officials said.
On Wednesday night, Superintendent Zach McLaughlin sent an e-mail to all parents in the district that the Portsmouth Police Department was notified of a threat to commit a school shooting. According to McLaughlin, the threat was made via video on a social media platform.
"As we are not currently in a position to feel that the threat is yet resolved, we need to make a decision regarding tomorrow’s school day. Out of an abundance of caution and a commitment to the safety of our school community, all Portsmouth Schools will be closed tomorrow, April 13th," McLaughlin said in his message.
On Thursday, the New Hampshire Department of Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) said they were aware of the threat.
"We continue to work with our local, state and federal partners to ensure that schools in New Hampshire remain safe. All threats are taken seriously until such time as their validity is determined. Everyone is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to their local law enforcement agency," the division said.
An investigation is ongoing.
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