Shaler Area Elementary student responsible for threat against schools that circulated on Snapchat

ALLEGHENY COUNTY, Pa. — Police have determined an elementary school student is responsible for a threat toward multiple districts that circulated on social media Wednesday night.

>>> LATEST: What we know so far about threats made against multiple local schools

The threat mentioned several local districts, including Armstrong, Butler, Hampton, North Hills, Pine-Richland and Sto-Rox.

Around 11 p.m., Shaler Township police said an elementary school student in the Shaler Area district was responsible for the threat.

The student reportedly admitted to making the threat and it has been deemed non-credible.

Police have not indicated if the student will be charged.

Parents dropped off their kids Thursday morning as they normally do, as class was in session at all Shaler Area schools. The threat is the second incident in just as many days after a bullet was found on a bus Wednesday morning. But parents like Lauren Monahan said they have the utmost faith in the school system and Shaler police.

“They’ve been here all morning. I’ve seen them cruising around, stopping, they’re outside of the school, the resource officer from Scott just went in…I’m very happy with how our district handled it,” said Monahan, whose three kids attend the elementary and primary schools. “It’s scary to have to send your kids to school and then worrying about them all day.”

Shaler Area superintendent Bryan O’Black issued the following statement Wednesday:

After becoming aware of social media posts warning of potential threats to schools, including Shaler Area, we immediately investigated this information with the Shaler Township Police Department. Police have identified a student within our district community who has admitted to creating these posts. The police are continuing their investigation, however have determined that this individual does not pose a threat to the school district. We will work collaboratively to ensure that appropriate actions are taken in accordance with applicable laws, district policies and individual privacy rights.

All Shaler Area schools will operate on a normal schedule and we will continue to have an increased police presence throughout the district today as a precaution.

School safety is our top priority, and it requires a strong partnership within our school community. We are encouraging families to use this opportunity to discuss internet safety, responsible communication and the dangers of making or sharing threats on social media.

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