SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCUA) — The Sioux City Police Department has concluded that there is no direct threat after a social media post led to a lockout at three local schools.
Police said that they were notified around 8:30 a.m. Friday that a student made a potentially concerning social media post that showed ammo.
The post led to a temporary lockout at West High, West Middle, and Loess Hills Elementary schools. The school district said the post was targeted at West High but decided to enter a lockout at the other schools as a precautionary measure. The lockout was lifted at approximately 9:15 a.m.
Police were able to make contact with the suspect who they identified as a male student. Police said he had been brought in for questioning.
Police don’t believe the post was made as a direct threat and have referred the situation to the County Attorney’s Office in order to decide on any potential charges.
Police are commending the students who reported the concerning post and are encouraging parents to speak with their children about how their social media posts can raise alarm.
The police also said, “The safety and security of students is a priority for us and we take threats of violence very seriously.”