(CBS DETROIT) – A Macomb County high school canceled classes Monday after police responded to false reports of shots fired during the school’s prom over the weekend.
Saturday night, Warren police officers reported to school officials that students called 911 after hearing balloons popping during the Warren Mott High School prom.
The high volume of calls led to a significant police response. It also prompted authorities to send parents to Beer Middle School to reunite with their students.
“Although 911 calls were made, at no time was there evidence of an active threat,” said John C. Bernia, superintendent of schools for Warren Consolidated Schools. “There have been reports of shots fired and injuries this evening, including a police officer. There is no evidence that any of these claims are true.”
Bernia initially said the Warren Mott High School Crisis Team would be on hand to support students on Monday following the incident, but he posted again on social media on Sunday canceling classes for Monday.
“Today, several members of the Warren Mott High School community started a “change.org petition” asking for the school to be closed tomorrow in light of Saturday’s crisis response to the Homecoming Dance,” Bernia said. “In response to the petition, someone posted a threat to the school. We have been in contact with OK2SAY and the Warren Police Department, who have begun their investigation.”
Although there is no real threat, classes are being cancelled due to the emotional stress that the events of this weekend have caused to students and staff.
In addition to the cancellation of classes, there will be no training, competitions or evening activities at school.
“To the students of Warren Mott – as your principal, your physical safety is a top priority for me,” Bernia said. “Your mental health is just as important. Please take some time on Monday to rest, reflect, talk to your loved ones about how you’re feeling, and be a friend to your peers. When you return to school on Tuesday, we have adults you can talk to and resources to help you.”
Another school also faced threats during its prom last weekend.
Delegates responded to Bedford High School in Monroe County on Saturday night after a 15-year-old boy threatened the school after getting into an argument with his ex-girlfriend. Authorities investigated and said the school’s homecoming dance was not affected.
