DENTON, TX, Jan. 19, 2022 – The Denton Police Department continues to investigate threats against Denton high schools that led to campus lockdowns on Wednesday morning.
At 9:39 a.m., Denton Public Safety Communications received a call threatening violence at Denton High School. The caller demanded an evacuation of the building, or a shooting would take place. Ryan High School was also believed to be impacted by this threat.
Officers were quickly dispatched and began thoroughly searching the two school campuses. Secondary searches also took place to ensure there were no threats to students and staff. No weapons were found at either school.
As a precautionary measure, Guyer High School, Newton Rayzor Elementary School, and Calhoun Middle School were placed on a lockout. All campuses returned to normal operations by noon.
During the investigation, one Denton High School student and a non-student at Ryan High School were detained for questioning. Neither subject had weapons. The two individuals cooperated with investigators and have been ruled out as suspects. Detectives have also learned of at least two similar threats in other Texas cities and will continue to investigate leads in partnership with the FBI.
Students, parents, and staff can expect an increased police presence on campuses this week. We understand these types of threats generate a great deal of fear and anxiety for everyone involved. Despite this, students and staff meticulously followed lockdown protocol, which allowed officers to efficiently clear the buildings. We are grateful for this and appreciate your continued support as we work to ensure our students are safe.
The Denton Police Department also greatly appreciates the assistance of the Denton Independent School District, University of North Texas Police Department, Denton County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the FBI.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call 940-349-8181.
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