Suspect in School Threats Identified

The Kearney School District has identified the individual they believe is responsible for the threat of violence which had been written on a restroom wall near the commons. Based on the facts gathered thus far, the district feels confident that the threat is not credible.

According to the district, the student will not be allowed back on campus as the investigation continues. Appropriate actions will be taken as detailed in the Student Handbook and in accordance with current Board Policy. The district indicated they will not be sharing any more details about the investigation or the student. Kearney Police Department officers will be on campus to provide additional security.

The district also released the following statement:

These types of images have been circulating at schools all across the United States over the last week. We understand recent local and national events may have some students and families on higher alert. We encourage parents to take this opportunity to converse with their children when they see threatening behavior online. Some talking points that may help include:

  • The safety of students and staff is our top priority. Students, parents and staff all have an important role to play in keeping our schools safe. We ask everyone to report any suspicious behavior you might encounter, as early intervention can prevent a situation from escalating.

  • All threats involving our schools, students and staff are taken seriously. This is not a matter that can be joked about, ever. Our School Resource Officer, school administration and district leaders work together to investigate, no matter if the threats in question are made verbally, in writing, email, text message, or online.

KPGZ News - Jim Dickerson contributed to this story