Lakeville North, South high schools targeted by threats

LAKEVILLE, Minn. (FOX 9) - Two Lakeville high schools were targeted by online threats sent through an anonymous reporting system that prompted a large law enforcement response on Tuesday.

Lakeville South High School threats

What we know:

Authorities say shortly after 9 a.m. on Sept. 22, the Lakeville Police Department responded to online threats directed at Lakeville South High School. The threats were submitted through the Lakeville Area Schools anonymous reporting system, and indicated the possible presence of firearms and explosives within the school.

Big picture view:

Because of the immediacy and specificity of the threats, a large law enforcement response was launched, resulting in the evacuation of students and staff, police said. First responders and K9 units cleared the building, and no weapons or evidence of violence were discovered.

Lakeville South students were safely transported to Hosanna Church, where parents were able to pick them up.

Lakeville North targeted hours later

The backstory:

Shortly after 12:15 p.m., additional online threats were received — this time directed at Lakeville North High School, according to police. The threats were also submitted through the same anonymous reporting system and referenced the presence of weapons. First responders cleared the building and surrounding area, and again, no weapons or evidence of violence were found.

The Lakeville Police Department said it is working closely with state and federal partners to determine who is responsible for the threats, and the investigation remains active. Officials said they continue to collaborate with Lakeville Area Schools to ensure the safety of all students and staff.

What they're saying:

Lakeville Area Schools staff and students are trained to use the Standard Response Protocol. Lakeville Police Chief Brad Paulson and Superintendent Michael Baumann acknowledged the response from those involved. "We are proud of our students and staff for following these processes," they said. "We also appreciate the cooperation and support of families as we worked to ensure student safety."

Paulson and Baumann also thanked local, state, federal and community partners who assisted with the response and provided support throughout the events.

What we don't know:

As of the latest update, no suspects have been publicly identified. It is not yet known who submitted the threats through the anonymous reporting system or what their motive may have been.

Correction: An earlier version of this story indicated both schools were evacuated, but officials said that was not the case. North students remained in class and remained in school until their normal release time.

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