Threats lead to school closures along western slope

(GRAND JUNCTION, Colo)

As the school year comes to a close several schools have canceled classes and increased school security due to threats.

A social media message directed at Columbine Middle School prompted the Montrose School District officials to ramp up security today. After investigation, authorities determined the threat was not aimed at the Columbine Middle School in Montrose. Officials inform Western Slope Now the increased security was “out of an abundance of caution.” and applaud the person who brought the message to law enforcement’s attention.

Moffat County officials shut down Craig Middle School today in response to a similar threat. According to district officials, the threat was circulating on Snap Chat over the weekend. Law enforcement went on heightened alert also as an abundance of precaution.

District 51 officials confirmed threats were made in Mesa County today as well. Threats targeted Fruita 8-9 School, Palisade High School and Grand Junction High School. D51 officials worked with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, Grand Junction Police Department and Fruita Police Department to determine the threats were not credible. D51 schools increased security today as a safety precaution.