Lemont Police Investigate Bomb Threat at Oakwood School

The Lemont Police Department is investigating a bomb threat at Oakwood School after finding a message written on one of the building's exterior walls.

District 113A officials were notified of the threat Sunday afternoon after a police officer patroling Oakwood discovered a message written in chalk that indicated the school would be bombed Tuesday, police said.

In an email to parents Sunday night, principals from Oakwood and River Valley said their schools would remain open Monday, as police have found no evidence of a bomb.

"At this time all agencies involved conclude that there is not a credible threat to our students or staff and recommend we follow our regular schedule," Oakwood Principal Cathy Slee said in the email.

To ensure student safety, Lemont police will be present at Oakwood on Monday and Tuesday. A sweep of the building will be conducted before staff and students enter the building. The school will also increase hallway supervision and may check bags that are brought into the school.

Although the threat was specific to Oakwood, River Valley—which shares a campus with Oakwood—will take the same precautionary measures, officials said.

No information was available as to who wrote the message. According to the District 113A handbook, students who damage school property and/or engage in threatening activities could face suspension or even expulsion.

In March, Old Quarry Middle School initiated a soft lockdown and canceled after-school activities after a bomb threat was found on a bathroom wall during school hours. 

READ: Bomb Threat Prompts Soft Lockdown at Old Quarry Middle School

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