Alleged threat targeting Elizabeth Forward HS prompts police presence

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Students at Elizabeth Forward High School went to class Thursday with increased security, after multiple reports of a possible planned shooting at the high school.

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"I feel safe enough with all the cops here now," student Jake Cole said.

According to a post on the police department's Facebook page, the alleged threat indicated that the planned shooting by one student would take place Thursday.

Channel 11's Joe Holden reported that the threat could stem from a fight that happened several days ago.

"We're going to try and backtrack to see if we can't find if someone who saw the video or heard the threat," Elizabeth Township Police Chief David Kerestes told Channel 11 News.

The school district's superintendent posted a message on Twitter Wednesday night, saying, "We are aware of rumors on Facebook and are taking steps to make sure high school is secure & safe. School is open tomorrow."

Parents, however, criticized the district's response to the security concern.

After details of the threat were posted on the WPXI-TV Pittsburgh Facebook page, a concerned parent told Channel 11, "Sadly, our administrators have yet to inform parents and students of the details and plans to provide safety to our children leaving our kids scared and our community angry."

"I would say pull your head out of the sand, pay attention and listen," parent Julie Snyder said Thursday.

Elizabeth Township police said multiple police agencies were at the high school Thursday to ensure the safety of students and staff.

WPXI