BREAKING NEWS Update: Stockbridge Jr/Sr High releases students early following a social media threat

by Hope Salyer

Stockbridge Jr/Sr High School released students at 1 p.m. Feb. 21, 2019 following a social media threat. Smith and Heritage Elementary schools remained open, but parents could sign their child out at the main office if they chose to do so.

According to multiple sources, a former student threatened the school in a Facebook post. The post stated, “F*** Stockbridge… fake f**** schooling needs to be blown with everyone in it.”

Stockbridge Community Schools Superintendent Karl Heidrich said, “Administration was notified of a social media threat towards the school district.  We contacted Cheif Torres to initiate and conduct an investigation.  Out of precaution and concern for the safety for our students our district buildings were locked down until further notice. We decided to release school early afternoon for the Junior/Senior High. We were then infomed that the suspect has been apprehended and our schools could remain open.  The lockdown was lifted for both Smith and Heritage and school ended at the normal time.  School Safety continues to be a priority for our students and school district.”

Chief Johnnie Torres said, “I can confirm that a former student, 19 years old and a Livingston County resident, has been arrested for making a terrorist threat to the Stockbridge schools. Formal charges will be requested through the Ingham County prosecutors office on Feb. 22, 2019.