Hoax threat directed toward Gresham High School results in criminal referral

A student at Gresham High School is being referred to the Juvenile Department for criminal charges after making social media posts threatening a school shooting.

On the eve of a Gresham-Barlow School District Safety Summit, where Police Chief Travis Gullberg spoke about his commitment to the safety of students, a 15-year-old Gresham High School student posted multiple pictures and videos of guns, making threats about a school shooting. A community member contacted the Gresham Police Department and reported the threats to officers, who immediately began an investigation.

With the assistance of the FBI, Gresham officers identified the student who made the threatening posts. Officers spoke with the student and after a thorough assessment of statements and the evidence, determined the threat was a hoax.

"Although this hoax is concerning, the swift and thorough investigation demonstrates our commitment to the safety of our schools and students," said Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg." I want to thank those in the community who promptly brought the threat to our attention, so we could address it immediately."

Gresham Police worked with district administrators to ensure they were aware of the investigation, enabling them to provide timely information to parents, students and staff.

For those unable to attend the Safety Summit, Gresham-Barlow School District shared information on school safety, including how to report threatening social media content.

Anyone with information about a potential threat or act of violence should call 911 (in an emergency) or the non-emergency line at 503-823-3333.

The SafeOregon Tip Line (844-472-3367), website, and mobile app are also available to report threats or potential acts of violence. Tips to SafeOregon can be made anonymously.

Additionally, tips can also be submitted to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at Tips.FBI.gov.