Police trace school threat call to New York as local districts tighten security

The Brattleboro Police Department said officers were sent to schools as a precaution.

Law enforcement and school officials responded Tuesday to a series of threatening calls that prompted lockdown-style precautions at schools across the region, with investigators saying the person believed to be behind at least one call is in New York state and does not appear to present an immediate danger.

In Brattleboro, police said they were investigating a morning call in which a caller threatened violence against local elementary schools. Town officials said investigators later determined the suspected caller was in New York state, while stressing that the inquiry is still ongoing. Police did not identify the person or explain how the location was determined.

The Brattleboro Police Department said officers were sent to schools as a precaution and worked with office staff to make sure safety protocols were in place. Officials also said Vermont State Police and agencies in nearby communities were informed and were helping with the case.

Earlier in the day, the Windham Southeast Supervisory Union told parents and employees through ParentSquare that Brattleboro Police Dispatch had received multiple calls containing broad threats toward schools. District officials said the situation appeared consistent with likely hoax activity, including what is commonly known as swatting, while noting that any threat to a school is treated seriously. Classes continued, but outdoor activities were halted until further notice, and schools began the morning under shelter-in-place procedures.

Brattleboro schools were expected to dismiss students at their usual times, with police visibility increased during dismissal. Officials said the added presence was intended to maintain order while the investigation continued.

At about the same time, the Windham Northeast Supervisory Union reported that all of its school and office buildings were placed in secure campus status after Vermont State Police relayed news of an unspecified threat aimed at area schools. The district said exterior doors were locked immediately and that students, staff, parents and visitors were not allowed to enter or leave until police gave the all-clear.

WNESU also asked families not to come to campuses to retrieve students, warning that doing so could complicate emergency response and create traffic problems. Parents were told not to flood school offices with calls so phone lines could remain open for coordination with police.

District leaders in both supervisory unions said students and staff were safe inside their buildings while response plans were carried out and that they remained in close contact with law enforcement. Police said the investigation is active and that more details will be released when available.