Holyoke Police respond to school threat - No threat detected - FBI involved in investigation

PRESS RELEASE: Holyoke Police Department - On Thursday, March 12, 2026, at approximately 3:00 p.m., the Holyoke Police Department responded to a reported threat directed at Holyoke JR/SR High School. School officials received a phone call from an unknown individual claiming to be armed with a rifle and a bomb, stating he was heading to the school.

Officers arrived within minutes, secured the campus, and restricted access to the area. Additional assistance was requested from the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, the Haxtun Police Department, and the Phillips County Office of Emergency Management. Holyoke JR/SR High School was immediately placed in Secure status while officers conducted a systematic sweep of the building. Due to its proximity, Holyoke Elementary School was also placed in Secure status as a precaution, and additional officers were dispatched to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Throughout the response, Chief JR Myers remained in direct communication with the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force and coordinated efforts with federal partners. After a thorough search of the school and the surrounding perimeter, officers determined that no active threat was present at either school. Given the seriousness of the reported threat, a controlled and orderly release of students from both schools was conducted as a precautionary measure.

The investigation has been turned over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Holyoke Police Department and the Holyoke School District are fully cooperating with federal authorities as the investigation continues.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the staff of the Holyoke School District for their unwavering commitment to student safety. Their professionalism, quick action, and dedication exemplify the standards we strive for in our schools. We also thank the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, the Haxtun Police Department, Phillips County Emergency Management, and the FBI for their partnership and support throughout this incident.

Finally, we thank all parents and guardians for their patience and cooperation. We understand the fear and uncertainty that situations like this create. Protecting the children of our community is our highest mission, and every decision made today was guided by that responsibility. If you have information related to this incident or have additional questions, please contact the Holyoke Police Department.