Swatting Hoax at St. John’s Prep in Danvers
On Monday, St. John’s Prep in Danvers, Massachusetts, was swarmed by police after a report of an active shooter on campus. However, Massachusetts State Police did not find any gunman and confirmed that it was a hoax. School officials believe they were the victim of a « swatting » hoax call, and police are investigating the source of the call.
Response to the Hoax
Massachusetts State Police troopers and Danvers Police officers responded to the school for a report of a person with a gun at around 1:49 p.m. The school entered an enhanced lockdown protocol, and police made immediate entries to campus buildings and areas. Those personnel, as well as additional personnel conducting secondary sweeps, found no gunman or threats of any kind and no victims.
Students’ Safety
Students were cleared out of the buildings, and some students ran from the school grounds on their own following the report of an active shooter. Numerous students were found in the woods next to the school. Students who fled school grounds on their own were directed to Stop and Shop, 301 Newbury St (Rt 1) Danvers, and parents were asked to report there to be reunited with their children.
Investigation
The State Police Fusion Center is assisting Danvers Police in the investigation into the source of the call. The matter of a Danvers police officer accidentally firing a single gunshot while responding is also under investigation.
In conclusion, the swatting hoax at St. John’s Prep in Danvers caused panic and fear among students and staff. However, the quick response of the police ensured that everyone was safe, and the investigation into the source of the call is ongoing.
Keywords: St. John’s Prep, Danvers, Massachusetts, swatting hoax, active shooter, police, investigation, students, safety.