FBI joining investigation into threat that closed Pine-Richland high school, middle school

GIBSONIA, Pa. — Federal Bureau of Investigation Joint Terrorism Task Force is joining the investigation into the threat that closed Pine-Richland's high school and middle school Wednesday.

District officials canceled classes following the threat.

All after-school and evening activities, including games involving Pine-Richland high school and middle school students were canceled Wednesday. The middle school open house was also canceled and will be rescheduled.

Police conducted a sweep and secured the high school, middle school and stadium.

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The Northern Regional Police Department will be on-site and will continue to investigate.

School is expected to be in session Thursday with heightened security, school district officials said.

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Students will be searched as they return to school, so no backpacks or other bags will be allowed, and they're advised to use clear bags for books and lunches. Instrument cases will also be searched.

All other schools in the district are open.

In a letter sent to parents, the superintendent said the cyber threat on the two buildings is considered a "terroristic threat in the state of Pennsylvania." He said the district will "pursue charges to the fullest extent of the law." He adds that making threatening comments is also a "level IV violation of the Pine-Richland School District discipline code."

If you have any information, you're asked to call 724-449-TIPS.