GREAT MILLS, MD – Rumors of violence at Great Mills High School have triggered the concerns of parents and students of the Great Mills community.

On the evening of Feb. 20, TheBayNet.com received messages from several concerned parents of Great Mills High School students regarding the threat of a school shooting circulating on Snapchat. The Snapchat post warns students of a possible shooting planned to take place in the upcoming days.

In response to the threats, Dr. Jake Heibel, principal of Great Mills High School sent the following message to parents and guardians. 

“Good Morning Great Mills High School Parent/Guardian,

Yesterday we received a report that a student in the hallway during transitions overheard two students mention “shooting” and “school”.  We interviewed the student with our SRO, viewed video, interviewed other students, and contacted central office.  The threat was not substantiated.  Late last night, additional information was circulated quite extensively on social media about a potential threat at school today.  Law enforcement was contacted and an investigation was conducted, which included interviews with students and parents to determine the validity of the potential threat. The threat to Great Mills High School has not been validated at this time. However, we will have additional security today and we will continue to investigate the source of the postings.  Also, continue your vigilance and alert us to any information you may encounter. If you see something, say something.

Tomorrow, students will have the opportunity to discuss school safety during One Lunch. I am very proud of our students and appreciate their vigilance and willingness to notify adults if they see something that concerns them.

Thank you and please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jake Heibel

Principal”

Corporal Julie Yingling, Public Information officer of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, told TheBayNet.com that they are aware of the threats and a the Special Operations Division is working to pinpoint the origin. In the meantime, there will be an extra police presence at Great Mills High to ensure the safety of the students.