TikTok Threat Deemed A Hoax; Santa Monica Schools Remain Open

SANTA MONICA, CA — Classes resumed at Santa Monica and Malibu schools Friday after a TikTok threat was determined to be a hoax, district officials said.

The nationwide apparent threat on the social media app triggered a broad response among law enforcement agencies and school districts, who monitored the situation and calmed fears, including Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District officials.

The threat went viral, claiming that there would be school shootings and bomb threats Friday, SMMUSD officials said.

"There is no location indicated and there are police departments and school districts across the country fielding calls regarding this post," SMMUSD officials said in a statement to parents and students. "The FBI is involved in investigating. This appears to be the latest in a series of hoaxes the past few weeks and numerous police departments around the country have investigated and publicly said there is no credible threat."

District officials spoke to law enforcement and SMMUSD schools were deemed safe.

"We are also in touch with the Los Angeles County Office of Education, which is in touch with the California Department of Education and Governor Gavin Newsom," district officials said.

If you see something, say something. You can submit an anonymous tip through We Tip or call 800-782-7463 (800-78-CRIME).

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