Update: Police report no valid threat of school shooting

Update: No valid threat suspected

Greater Sudbury police report finding those responsible for messages found on a bathroom stall which described a school shooting to take place on April 24.

Police determined there is no valid threat to the school, according to a media release issued this afternoon.

Those involved are students at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School, where administration has been informed of their involvement. 

No criminal charges will be laid in relation to this matter, according to police.

"We remind community members to be aware of the impact messages and words can have on those around you," police caution in their media release.

Despite the suspects being located, police are still planning to be present at the school on April 24 "to assist in making staff and students feel safe."

"We would like to thank the students, staff, and administration for their co-operation throughout this investigation," police reported. "The safety, security and wellness of our community remains our top priority."

Original story

After two messages were found written on a bathroom stall describing a school shooting to take place on April 24, Greater Sudbury Police are investigating.

The potential threat affects St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School.

“Officers are actively investigating the matter to determine the credibility of the threat,” according to a media release. 

“Officers are working with administration and staff to conduct a thorough investigation. The safety of staff, students and our community is our top priority.”

Increased police visibility will be present in the area and inside the school on April 23-24 to ensure public safety and support staff and students.

After being contacted by Sudbury.com, Sudbury Catholic District School Board issued the following statement:

"The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community is our top priority," said the statement. "As this is a GSPS matter and an active police investigation, we kindly request media inquiries to be directed to the GSPS at this time."

St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School has also issued a letter to parents and guardians on the incident.

"We are currently investigating with the support of the Greater Sudbury Police Service a potential threat to take place on April 24, 2024 at St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School," said the April 18 letter, which was signed by principal Beverly Belanger.

"Conversations with students and parents during this investigation will determine the validity and credibility of the threat. We will continue to have a heightened awareness to school safety at St. Benedict and continue to act with the mindset of taking every precaution when it comes to student and staff safety, as this is our utmost concern. Thank you for your understanding and continued support."

Anyone with information related to the origin of the messages is asked to contact Greater Sudbury Police at 705-675-9171 or Crime Stoppers at 705-222-8477.