Police trace online hate crime threat to Beaver County teen

PITTSBURGH — A Beaver County teen made an online hate crime threat on social media, Pittsburgh police said.

Police talked with the teen and his family early Wednesday morning and determined that he had no intentions to carry out the threat.

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"We remind the public: If you see something, say something. Call 911, alert police to any suspicious activity," the tweet said.

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More than a dozen people sent the tweet to WPXI Tuesday night after it was posted. The threat didn't name a specific hospital, but did say a "hate crime" would be committed at 10:30 a.m.

At this time teen has not been arrested, and his identity has not yet been released.

"The investigation has to take its course. Once it comes to a conclusion then we will make a determination whether or not charges should be filed and what charges are appropriate," Pittsburgh Police Commander Eric Holmes said.

Allegheny Health Network responded to the threat, sending Channel 11 a statement:

"We are aware of this threat and taking it seriously. Our security teams are on heightened alert at all of our hospital campuses and other affiliated facilities. We are also cooperating with local, state and federal law enforcement who are actively investigating the matter.  The safety and security of our staff, patients and visitors is always our highest priority."

UPMC also responded to the threat, posting on social media:

"We're aware of a tweet directed to an undisclosed Pittsburgh-area hospital. We're actively cooperating with federal and local law enforcement as they investigate this matter and determine whether or not the information is credible.

Carlow University was also on alert after the threat came out, sending out a notification saying in part "Carlow University Police will be vigilant about the safety of the campus and surrounding area."

The Twitter account has been suspended.

Cox Media Group