Bomb threat non-credible; early dismissal for CHS and TMS per policy (updated 9/30 at 7:56pm) – MercerMe

A bomb threat made to Hopewell Valley Central High School (CHS) this morning was a non-credible threat to which both the high school staff along with law enforcement partners are proceeding as per policy, according to Hopewell Township Police Director Robert Karmazin. Karmazin told MercerMe at 12:36pm today that he expects that the scene will be cleared shortly.

HVRSD School Superintendent Rosetta Treece sent a message to CHS and Timberlane Middle School families at approximately 1pm notifying them that the students will all be dismissed early today. The message reads:

Due to a bomb threat we received at the high school today, we are sending all students at Timberlane Middle School and Central High School home for early dismissal. We ask that parents/guardians whose children were scheduled to ride the bus today not report to the campuses to pick up those students. If you were scheduled to pick your child up today, you will be able to pick them up at Timberlane after the buses are cleared and students who drive have been dismissed. All sports at the middle and high school have been canceled. It may take some time for students to arrive home, so we ask for your patience.

This is a precautionary step to ensure that all staff and students are safe as we continue to conduct an investigation and thorough search of the buildings. We will share more information as soon as possible.

MercerMe will continue to watch this story and report as events develop.

Update: At approximately 5pm, September 30, HVRSD families received the following email:

Dear Hopewell Valley Families,

This morning, a student reported seeing a picture of a bomb on social media along with a threat to CHS. The Hopewell Township police were notified immediately and they are investigating the situation. Three suspicious packages were found and cleared. As a precautionary measure, the high school students were safely evacuated to Timberlane Middle School while the high school was thoroughly searched and secured using dogs. There will be a significant police presence in and around the building tomorrow to ensure safety.

We will continue this investigation and, hopefully, find the individual(s) responsible for posting this threat. We will also work with teachers, guidance counselors, and staff to remind students about the seriousness of this action. If you have any information about the threat, please contact our tip line via telephone 609-737-4000 x 8477 (TIPS) or email tips@hvrsd.org.I recognize that sending this letter may heighten your concern, but I felt it necessary to communicate clearly regarding matters related to students. Hopewell Valley is a wonderful and welcoming place, but unfortunately not immune from the realities of the time in which we live.

Sincerely,Rosetta D. Treece, Ed.D.Superintendent of Schools

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Bomb threat non-credible; early dismissal for CHS and TMS per policy (updated 9/30 at 7:56pm) - MercerMe