Jan 27, 2023

Student accused of bomb threat at Kansas middle school

Posted Jan 27, 2023 12:00 PM

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and officials with USD 497 in Lawrence investigated a bomb threat at West Middle School, 2700 Harvard Road in Lawrence.  Officials indicated there was a written threat left on a technology device Wednesday. 

 Officers, along with the ATF's Explosive Detection Unit, searched the entire building and found nothing of concern, according to USD 497. The school district transported students to another facility during the investigation and district officials communicated directly with parents.

 Authorities were able to identify and question the student responsible for the threat, who was ultimately booked into the Juvenile Detention Center.

After the "all clear," the district transported all West students and staff from Free State High School back to West. The middle school families received additional information via phone, email and text. 

The report of a written threat left on a technology device yesterday. Police are investigating. All West students & staff are safe and have been bused to Free State High, where we will serve them lunch & provide support.