There was an increased police presence at three schools in Woodstock Wednesday after acts of violence were made towards the schools, police and school officials said.
The Woodstock Police Department said they investigated an incident at Woodstock High School on Tuesday where a threat was made to cause violence with a firearm.
“This investigation remains ongoing at this time. Steps have been taken to ensure the safety of all students and staff including an increased police presence at the school tomorrow [Wednesday],” the department said in a statement.
Woodstock High School Principal Art Vallicelli notified parents around 3:30 p.m. Tuesday of the threat after the school became aware of it.
“Upon learning of the message, WHS administration immediately shared information and began collaborating with the Woodstock Police Department,” Vallicelli said.
A photo was taken of the threatening message and posted on social media. “Ima shoot up the [expletive] school tomorrow,” the threat said, according to a photo obtained by Lake and McHenry County Scanner.
“We have increased police presence in and around the high school and are investigating the incident. The Woodstock Police Department advised to continue with the school day with increased police presence,” Vallicelli said.
Police said they were also made aware of a threat to Creekside Middle School that was circulating on social media.
That threat is a “social media rumor” stemming from an incident that occurred on Monday, police said.
The student in question regarding the threat is suspended and not allowed on school property.
“We’re taking steps to ensure he has no access to firearms, etc, prior to his return. We’ll be working with D200 officials on other steps,” police said.
Police are also investigating a threat to Woodstock North High School after a student received a message on Snapchat asking if they go to Woodstock North High School.
The person then said, “When I shoot I don’t miss,” according to a screenshot obtained by Lake and McHenry County Scanner.
Woodstock Deputy Police Chief Ray Lanz said his department and Woodstock Community Unit School District 200 would be releasing a press release Wednesday with more information on the investigations.
Anyone with information regarding any of the threats should contact the Woodstock Police Department at 815-338-2131.
Editor’s Note: The second photo published in this story was edited by Lake and McHenry County Scanner to partially conceal the obscenity.