All schools in Independent School District 196, one of Minnesota’s largest districts, remain on lockdown Tuesday (March 17) after several voicemail threats were reported to district officials. The district oversees more than 30 schools in Rosemount, Apple Valley and Eagan.
District closes schools ‘out of an abundance of caution’
District 196 officials said on their website that the closures were precautionary.
“The safety of our students and staff is always our highest priority,” the district said.
“Multiple schools received voice threats that were first discovered at 3:30 this morning. District officials contacted police who immediately began an investigation. At 5:45 a.m., district officials made the decision out of an abundance of caution to close schools while the investigation continues.”
The district clarified that Tuesday will not be an e-learning day and employees have been instructed not to report to work.
Police are investigating the threat
The Eagan Police Department is investigating. Lt. Nate Tennessen provided details: “Our investigators are actively working with neighboring law enforcement and the school district to determine the origin and nature of these threats. At this time, we are unable to confirm the threats as credible, nor can we completely rule them out. Out of an abundance of caution, Independent School District 196 has decided to close district schools today.”
Police stressed the importance of the public’s help: “We encourage anyone with information related to these threats to contact the Eagan Police Department at 651-675-5700. As always, if you see anything concerning, please report it immediately.”
