Based on coverage from CBC and Global.
New Brunswick Schools Face Bomb Threats
Tuesday morning brought an unsettling start for students and families in New Brunswick as seven schools across Fredericton, Oromocto, and Moncton were shut down due to bomb threats. The threats, which were sent via email, targeted several schools in the Anglophone West School District, including Fredericton High School, George Street Middle School, and others. The Anglophone East School District also had to close Arnold H. MacLeod School in Moncton.
Superintendent David McTimoney of the Anglophone West School District was alerted to the threat around 7 a.m. He explained that the email referenced "bombs surrounding the school(s)," prompting immediate action. By 7:30 a.m., the decision was made to close the schools as a precautionary measure.
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Police Investigation and Arrest
Fredericton Police Force quickly took charge of the situation, asking students and families to avoid the schools and keep emergency lines open. They also coordinated with school officials to ensure students who had already arrived were evacuated safely. Buses en route were redirected to designated evacuation sites, where staff were on hand to supervise students.
By 10:40 a.m., police declared all schools safe, stating there was "no current threat to public safety." However, the schools remained closed for the rest of the day to ensure thorough safety checks. In a significant development, police arrested a youth later in the day, believed to be responsible for the threats. Due to the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the individual cannot be named. The investigation revealed that threats made to schools outside Fredericton were also linked to this individual.
Community Response and School Reopening
The swift response from law enforcement and school officials highlighted the community's commitment to student safety. Superintendent McTimoney praised the cooperation with Fredericton Police, emphasizing the importance of their ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, Randolph J. MacLean, superintendent of the Anglophone East School District, ensured that students were safely picked up from evacuation sites, such as Lewisville Church in Moncton.
Both school districts have announced that the affected schools will reopen on Wednesday. This decision comes after careful consideration and assurance from the police that the situation is under control. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in ensuring the safety of students and staff in educational institutions.
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