Oxford, Mich. (October 24, 2024): Oxford High School was placed on lockdown Thursday morning after a phone call falsely claimed that a person was inside the school with an automatic rifle and pipe bomb. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the incident is likely a “swatting” call, originating from outside the United States.
The call came in around 11:45 a.m., leading school officials to initiate the ALICE protocol (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate). Some students were quickly evacuated to a nearby Meijer store, where parents were advised to pick them up if they had been contacted by their children. The school remained on lockdown as law enforcement, including the Sheriff’s office, thoroughly searched the premises.
According to Sheriff Michael Bouchard, the caller falsely claimed to be in a bathroom at the high school with an AK-47-style rifle and a pipe bomb, threatening to harm students and staff. However, initial investigations suggest that this was a hoax originating from the Netherlands.
The Sheriff’s office emphasized the serious nature of such threats, stating, “Every threat will be fully investigated, and we will always seek to hold those responsible accountable.” In previous cases, Oakland County law enforcement has successfully prosecuted individuals for swatting, even working with international partners to bring perpetrators to justice.
Swatting Incident Evokes Painful Memories
The incident comes nearly three years after the tragic 2021 Oxford High School shooting, which left four students dead and 11 others injured. In that event, students were also evacuated to the nearby Meijer store, making Thursday’s false alarm an emotional reminder for many in the community.
Law enforcement continues to monitor the situation, and officials have asked parents to avoid going to the school. Instead, they are encouraged to meet their children at the designated evacuation site if contacted.
What is Swatting?
“Swatting” refers to the practice of making a false report of an emergency, often involving extreme violence, to draw law enforcement to a specific location. These calls are made with the intent of deceiving authorities and causing panic, often targeting schools or public spaces.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to remain calm and follow the guidance of school officials. While no credible threat has been identified, the Sheriff’s office will ensure that every lead is thoroughly pursued to hold those responsible for the hoax accountable.