High school football game in Groton postponed after threats made

GROTON, Conn. (WTNH) — A Fitch High School football game was postponed and Groton police are investigating after a threat was made on Thursday afternoon.

This comes after police received information at around 1:47 p.m. from Norwich Free Academy security with concerns around the Fitch vs. N.F.A. High School football game that was scheduled for 6:00 p.m.

Additional staffing was assigned to the game. Then later in the afternoon, the game was postponed out of caution after social media posts prompted additional safety concerns.

Police said the social media posts were made by people who were not associated with Fitch High School or the event.

“We encourage students, parents, and citizens who are made aware of concerning posts and potential threats they view on social media to immediately bring them to attention of public safety and/or school officials,” Chief L.J. Fusaro said in a statement. “This simple act can help identify bad actors and help deter and prevent disruption of events. We applaud these students for having the courage and concern to connect with their SRO to help prevent potential problems at yesterday’s game.”

The Fitch High School football game was scheduled for Friday, Oct. 18 at 4 p.m. Additional police and security officials will be present.

The Fitch High School Principal Matthew Z. Brown released a statement regarding the football game guidelines below:

“In collaboration with the police department and representatives from NFA, we decided to postpone the game due to the serious nature of these concerns. The Fitch-NFA game will be held today at 4 p.m. at Fitch. Attendees must adhere to the following parameters:

1. Each varsity player will identify four family members to be their spectators. These spectators must still purchase a ticket.

2. Every listed spectator must have a photo ID along with their ticket. If you are not listed, you will not be admitted to the game.

3. Only NFA and Fitch students will be admitted with a current school ID. Students from both schools will be checked in by their school administrator at their designated gate. Fitch will be checked in at the upper gate and NFA will be checked in at the lower gate. All Fitch and NFA Students are welcome to the game and do not need to be invited by a player.

4. Tickets will still be available on GoFan: https://gofan.co/event/1701500?schoolId=CT17460.

5. Tickets already purchased will be validated on GoFan to accommodate the date change.

6. The concession stand will be open.

We thank you for your cooperation and understanding to protect everyone’s safety.”

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