Bomb threat at Fergus high school a hoax: police

FERGUS – Police continue to investigate a bomb threat targeting Centre Wellington District High School that turned out to be a hoax.

In a Sept. 11 press release, Wellington County OPP officials stated police were called to the Fergus high school earlier that day.

"It was reported that a social media post referenced a potential threat at a local school," police stated.

"Investigators, along with the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) officials, determined the threat of violence was false."

The OPP release did not name the school involved or provide any other information.

UGDSB spokesperson Heather Loney told the Advertiser the threat was made against Centre Wellington District High School.

She noted staff members at the school were notified of the threat at about 8:45am that morning.

"Staff immediately called police and followed the board's emergency response procedures for bomb threats," states an UGDSB release provided by Loney.

"After investigating, police and board officials determined that the threat was unsubstantiated."

The statement noted any further questions about the investigation should be directed to police.

However, other than confirming the threat was made on Snapchat, the OPP did not answer follow-up questions from the Advertiser seeking basic information about the incident.

Asked specifically why police did not name the school involved, OPP spokesperson Josh Cunningham did not provide an answer. Instead he pointed out the school board had later identified the school.

Police are asking anyone with information to call the OPP or Crime Stoppers.