On January 26, 2016 a note threatening unnamed students was found in the McPherson High School’s boys’ restroom. Students took the anonymous note to a teacher, John Lujano, who reported to school officials and the McPherson Police Department. Later that night, around 7pm, the administration released a text message to all parents alerting them of the note and the expected increased police presence at the high school the following day. Around 10pm the same night, a second text was sent to parents sharing that after an investigation by the McPherson Police Department they concluded there was no reason to believe that the note was a credible threat.

“All threats have to be handled as legitimate. After reading the note, it appeared to me that it was an attempt to get someone else blamed for the threat. That being said, I immediately contacted the office,” Lujano said

“Mr. Plackmier, and Mr. MacFarland were in my room within minutes, and assessed the situation. I believe the matter was handled properly,” Lujano continued.

Although classes continued as normal the following day, many students stayed home. Police patrolled the inside and outside of school throughout the day. Around 1pm, a student was arrested, but their involvement with the threat is not known. Students suspected to be involved were detained and interviewed. The McPherson Police Department stated that one 15 year-old male had charges pending that included Aggravated Criminal Threat. The investigation is still ongoing and more students may be charged with association regarding the threat.