On April 10, 2026, at approximately 10:30 AM, the Sault Ste. Marie Police Department, in
coordination with Sault Area Public Schools, responded to a reported threat involving the
school campus. The investigation remains ongoing; however, information obtained thus far
indicates the incident is consistent with a hoax commonly referred to as “swatting.”
Swatting is a law enforcement term used to describe false reports of serious or violent
incidents made to prompt a large-scale emergency response, often targeting schools or
other public institutions.
In this case, an unidentified male contacted the school and claimed he intended to come to
the campus armed with a firearm and carry out a shooting inside and outside the building.
Investigators have determined this incident is part of a broader national swatting effort, with
school districts in Michigan, Ohio, Missouri, New York, Georgia, California, and Wisconsin
receiving identical or similar threats on the same day and within a similar timeframe.
At this time, there is no evidence to indicate a credible or imminent threat associated with
the call received by Sault Area Public Schools. The Sault Ste. Marie Police Department will
continue coordinating with affected jurisdictions and appropriate state and federal partners
as the investigation continues.
As a precaution, there will be an increased law enforcement presence on and around school
campuses beginning tomorrow and continuing through the upcoming week. This presence is
intended to provide reassurance and support a safe learning environment.
We recognize this situation is concerning and appreciate the community’s cooperation, as
the safety of students and staff remains our highest priority.
If anyone has information about this incident, please contact City of Sault Ste. Marie Police
Department Detective/Sgt. Gapczynski at (906) 632-5744.
