Law enforcement investigating school gun threat in multiple local counties

CLEVELAND COUNTY, N.C. ( QUEEN CITY NEWS ) — A threat towards schools in Cleveland County involving a gun circulating on social media is being investigated and has prompted an increase in security at schools across the area, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office said Tuesday.

“There will be additional sheriff’s deputies at school campuses this morning and we will update you with any additional information, as we have it available,” the sheriff’s office said.

The sheriff’s office said they were “aware of the photo circulating around social media of the individual holding a firearm and subsequently making threats toward schools.”

There is no mention of an arrest, and it’s not clear whether law enforcement knows who made the post. The circumstances surrounding the threat or exactly which schools were being targeted have not been confirmed and this remains an active investigation.

The school district also released the following statement to Queen City News.

“We are certainly aware of posts surrounding multiple counties and each local law enforcement agency is involved and assisting with the matter. We also have additional law enforcement in and around our campuses today.”

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office released a statement on Tuesday, saying several departments are aware of the threats that mention multiple schools.

“The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is aware of recent social media posts suggesting threats of school shootings. These posts name a large number of schools across multiple counties. We are thoroughly investigating the posts and coordinating closely with the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office and Gaston County Police Department. To ensure safety, we will be enhancing our presence at local schools and handling this situation with the highest level of seriousness.”

This is a Developing Story . Check back for updates

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