By Douglas P. Marsh
Students were not admitted into buildings at Surline middle and elementary in West Branch Friday morning after the schools received what was termed a “vague threat.”
“As a precautionary measure, we are currently holding all students on the buses at Surline Schools. We have received a vague threat, and authorities are actively investigating the situation,” said a message distributed by telephone and email just after 9 a.m. “The safety of our students is our top priority, and we are taking every necessary step to ensure their security. Students are not being released at this time. We will provide more information as soon as it becomes available. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”
At 10 a.m., law enforcement officers from West Branch City Police, the Ogemaw County Sheriff’s Office and the Michigan State Police were all on-scene. Many parents were also approaching school buildings, receiving mixed messages about where students ultimately would be released.
“There was a threat. Obviously there wasn’t an incident that occurred. The school’s taken steps to ensure the safety of the kids. Kids are being released to parents at this time,” said Lt. Adams with West Branch City Police. “Office Beehler, our [school resource officer, or] SRO, is the one that took point on this this morning once he received the information.”
Students were released throughout the morning at different times depending on variables such as age and grade level and whether they were dropped off or riding the bus.
At 11:35 a.m., a follow-up communication was distributed by the schools.
“While the threat remains unsubstantiated and authorities continue to investigate, we are now asking parents to pick up Surline students no later than 12:15 [p.m.] today. Buses will begin K-8 routes at 12:30 p.m. for an early release.
“We understand that these situations may cause anxiety and concern. Thank you to our families for your understanding and patience.”
This article was updated with the correct spelling of the school resource officer’s surname.
