By Staff Reports
Authorities are investigating a bomb threat reported Monday morning involving Bleckley County High School. The incident prompted a lockdown at the school as law enforcement responded.
In a news release, Bleckley County Sheriff Daniel Cape said deputies and emergency personnel remain on scene, with the immediate priority focused on the safety of students, faculty, and staff. Cape stated that all students are safe and accounted for at this time.
Law enforcement officers are conducting a thorough search of the campus with explosive detection K-9 teams. Assisting agencies include the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia Department of Corrections, Middle Georgia State University, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Preliminary information indicates the incident may be consistent with what is commonly referred to as a “swatting” call — a false report intended to trigger a large emergency response. Officials also noted a similar call was reported in Houston County.
As a precaution, all entrances and exits to the school campus remain secured by deputies.
The Sheriff’s Office said additional updates will be released as appropriate.
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Editor’s Note: As mentioned above by Sheriff Daniel Cape, “swatting” is a term used when someone makes a false emergency report — such as a bomb threat, active shooter call, or other serious danger — in order to trigger a large law enforcement response. These incidents are often intended to create panic, disrupt normal operations, or cause chaos. Authorities treat such calls seriously, as they can place people at risk and divert emergency resources from real emergencies. Criminal charges can also be brought against the person responsible for making the false report.
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