Local Officials Warn of TiKToK School Shooting Threat

(KNSI) – The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office and officials with the Sartell – St. Stephen School District report that they are aware and affected by a TikTok trend that has emerged indicating widespread violence to schools nationwide on December 17th, dubbed “American School Shooting Day.”

This national threat is circulating on social media regarding alleged threats concerning schools. There is no indication of a nationwide specific threat, however, the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office wants residents to be aware that they are currently investigating information that was brought to their attention by the Royalton School District. The information was regarding a video of a social media post that may have identified three school districts in Morrison County; Little Falls School District, Royalton School District, and Pierz School District. At this time, the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office has not been able to identify or verify the specific post or parties who may have been responsible. The investigation is ongoing. They are working in partnership with the school districts and all local law enforcement agencies directly impacted. Little Falls Schools closed for the day as a result.

At Sartell Middle School, a report was made to the school office about a TicTok threat on Wednesday. According to an email to parents Wednesday night, after consultation with the Sartell Police Department and completing an investigation, there is no indication that any of the Sartell-St. Stephen Schools are involved in this social media threat. The email continues “please know that we have been instructed by law enforcement that there is no threat to our school community. ”

“This is a reminder for parents and/or guardians to pay attention and inquire about their children’s social media communications. Make sure that discussions include positive and respectful social media use, making sure that social media postings do not violate their school’s code of conduct and/or lead to potential criminal charges. Students need to be reminded that everything that is posted on social media can be shared. They need to think about every message they convey before sending it out.”

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety says there is no credible threat, but are closely monitoring the situation.

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