LAURIE WEIR

A presence of police from the Smiths Falls Police Service have been spotted at Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute today, Wednesday, Feb. 27.

A letter from the principal was sent to parents and caregivers today, which was obtained by this publication. 

“Last evening, the police were made aware of some rumours that originated on SnapChat about a violent incident that may occur at our school,” principal Stacie Dowdall wrote. 

There was no mention of the type of threat, who was involved, or to whom it was directed. 

All matters related to the safety of students is taken seriously, and the police were notified who investigated immediately, the principal stated. 

“Police have advised us today that we were safe to open our school and operate our regular school day,” Dowdall wrote. 

Out of an “abundance of caution,” there will be a police presence onsite today and police will continue to monitor the situation for any new information, the principal stated.

“Please know that the safety and wellbeing of students is a priority for us,” Dowdall wrote. “If you have any questions regarding this matter and how it affects your child, please reach out to me directly.”

When the Smiths Falls police were contacted about the incident, Acting Police Chief Jodi Empey said a news release would be sent out shortly.

Wednesday, Feb. 27 was recently declared Pink Shirt Day by the Town of Smiths Falls, in an effort to end bullying. Mayor Shawn Pankow made the declaration. 

“The Town of Smiths Falls is committed to fostering community safety and wellbeing for all residents,” the declaration reads, in part. “Through the promotion of anti-bullying campaigns and by collectively coming together to denounce bullying in all of its forms, we can help bring bullying to an end.”

More to come.