Sentinel staff report–
Following the posting of a threatening message on social media that warned students not to go to Sylvan Middle School on Sept. 23, the school released a statement saying the threat was found “not to be credible.”
The original post appears to have been made on Instagram from an account named “f*cksylvan.” The message was posted on Sept. 18 and said “DONT GO TO SYLVAN sept 23rd.” Comments posted in response questioned why, with some asking whether it could be an indication of plans for a school shooting.
The original post was also circulated on various social media platforms on Wednesday, causing alarm among parents.
A video was also posted by the same Instagram account last month showing a blue Sylvan Middle School t-shirt being lit on fire after flammable liquid was poured on it. Music playing in the background of the video was from the hip-hop duo $uicideboy$, who are known for their often violent and suicide-themed lyrics.
A message from Principal Kirk Bebout posted on Sylvan Middle School’s Facebook page on Friday said police had identified the student behind the post and deemed the threat to not be credible.
“The Citrus Heights Police Department was able to identify and locate the student behind the threatening social media post that was circulating Wednesday,” wrote Bebout, also noting that “appropriate actions have been taken.”
The principal also recommended that parents use the opportunity to talk to their children about threats of violence.
“If a student does hear another student make a threatening comment, or if they observe behavior that is concerning to them, they should report it to a trusted school adult immediately,” wrote Bebout. “We will investigate any reports of threats fully with the support of the Citrus Heights Police Department and take appropriate actions to ensure student and staff safety.”
Last year, Sylvan Middle School was temporarily locked down after gunshots were reported near the school. That report was later deemed to be “unfounded” by police.
