OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Sheriff’s deputies swarmed Tohopekaliga High School Wednesday morning after school officials learned about a threat of possible violence on campus, the School District of Osceola County said.
Eyewitness News has learned a student reported overhearing others discussing a threat of school violence.
Osceola Schools issued a statement to students and parents about the precautionary lockdown.
This is an important message from Tohopekaliga High School. The school is currently on lockdown as a precaution because of a threat of school violence. All students and staff are safe, and additional law enforcement officers are on campus investigating. pic.twitter.com/IP7Dm13ru2
— Osceola Schools (@Osceolaschools) January 20, 2021
While district officials were quick to note that students and staff were safe, no one was permitted on or off the school campus while deputies investigated the possible threat.
After searching the campus, deputies determined no threat existed and said the situation was under control.
Toho HS was placed on a Red Lockdown due to a possible threat. After our investigation, the all clear was given and the lockdown was lifted. More updates will be given if needed. Everything is under control.
— Osceola County Sheriff's Office (@OsceolaSheriff) January 20, 2021
School officials announced a short time later that Toho High would remain on Code Yellow lockdown for the remainder of the school day, as a precaution.
They added that Wednesday’s dismissal was set for normal time and parents did not need to pick up students from campus early.
Out of an abundance of caution, the school will remain on a Code Yellow lockdown for the remainder of the school day, which will limit access to campus. Law enforcement will remain on campus as a reassurance to students and parents, and there is no need to pick up students early.
— Osceola Schools (@Osceolaschools) January 20, 2021
Download the WFTV news app and watch Eyewitness News at Noon on TV 27 for updates on this developing story.
Click here to have updates sent straight to your inbox.
