Parsons Police investigate a potential threat at high school

PARSONS, Kan. (KOAM) -- The Parsons Police Department investigate a potential threat of violence at Parsons High School.

According to the Parsons Police Department, the School Resource Officer received a tip on Tuesday, September 24 about a "shooter list", leading to an investigation conducted by Detectives, the SRO, and Patrol Officers throughout the evening.

Parsons PD say there was an increased law enforcement presence at the high school in response to the report.

"We are aware of similar incidents occurring nationwide and are partnering with the Kansas Fusion Center—a collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies—to share critical information and ensure coordinated responses across jurisdictional boundaries." - Parsons Police Department.

The police department says multiple search warrants were issued to examine social media, cellular devices and several interviews were conducted. The Parsons PD says no posts or evidence have been found to corroborate the threat at this time. After the thorough investigation, Detectives determined that the rumored "shooter list" on Snapchat never existed.

According to the Parsons Police Department, the individual involved admitted to fabricating the story after overhearing a conversation about not attending school on Wednesday. The individual claimed it was a "joke" and did not anticipate the situation escalating to this extent.

The Labette County Attorney's Office is currently reviewing the matter to determine if formal charges will be filed against the person or persons involved in spreading this false information.

"It is disheartening that in this day and age we have to worry about our students in school as well as all of the other turmoil that is going on in the world. This incident may have not been an actual plan for violence, but it will not deter us form being vigilant in monitoring the schools in the future. Having two School Resource Officers is a great benefit and if anyone, staff or student, ever has problems in the school, please reach out to them and make it known. We do not want to endure the tragedy that could come from not speaking up," said Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks.

This continues to be an on-going investigation, and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It."

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