Police presence increases after Junction City school shooting threats unfold

JUNCTION CITY (KSNT) - Junction City police say it is increasing officer presence at USD 475 schools after shooting threats were made against Junction City Middle School.

Wednesday afternoon, the Junction City Police Department was made aware of threats that were circulating on TikTok against the Junction City Middle School. According to a social media post from Junction City, Kansas Police Department, the threats stemmed from an apparent list of schools identified as targets for a potential school shooting.

School Resource Officers and USD 475 conducted a thorough investigation, and determined "the threat is unfounded". This means there is no credible evidence that suggests any students are in immediate danger.

These threats appear to be part of a concerning online trend not unique to USD 475. Similar threats have been reported in other districts across Kansas, as well as in states such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, and Florida. JCPD is actively working with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) to investigate the origins of this post fully and ensure the safety of our schools.

Statement excerpt from Junction City Police

According to police, the list includes Title 1 schools from across Kansas, which are receiving federal funding to support educational programs. Junction City police say, along with Geary County Sheriff's Office and USD 475, the agencies will ensure there will be an increased officer presence at district schools over the next couple of days to make sure there is a safe learning environment.

The Junction City Police Department encourages the community to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity of concerns immediately.If you have any information regarding this threat, please contact the JCPD at (785) 762-5912.

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