Montgomery College officials: Former student emailed threats, prompting shut down

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. ( DC News Now ) — A former student emailed threats to Montgomery College (MC) on Friday, prompting the school to shut down for the day across all locations.

The community college issued a code red at 1:30 p.m. on its website , stating, “All onsite & remote operations/instruction/services are suspended. Check MC email for more info.”

In an email sent to students and staff obtained by DC News Now, MC wrote the following, in part:

“Montgomery College (MC) made the difficult but necessary decision to close all locations today, Friday, October 11, following emailed threats received from a former student. The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and the broader MC community is, and will always be, our first priority.

Upon receiving the threats, MC officials immediately contacted local law enforcement, who are actively investigating the situation. After careful consideration and in consultation with authorities, the decision was made to close all College locations and suspend services while the investigation continues.”

In an update Friday evening, Takoma Park Police issued an arrest warrant for 25-year-old Yonas Alemseged Harris for Threat of Mass Violence.

Police said he sent intimidating and threatening emails to Montgomery College officials and employees, as well as the Montgomery County Police Department.

Officials said the messages indicated he intended to “shoot up” Montgomery College.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Takoma Park Police Department at (301) 270-1100.

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