This story was updated on Oct. 15, 2024 at 2:48 p.m.
Authorities said Tuesday afternoon an investigation into a shooting threat against a Worthington middle school has led them to a SnapChat user in California.
Officials are working with local authorities there to continue the investigation.
McCord Middle School in Worthington was shut down on Tuesday after a shooting threat was made against the school.
Vicki Gnezda, Director of Communication for Worthington City Schools, said multiple emails were received from students and parents about a SnapChat group where someone made a threat to shoot the school.
Worthington school officials and Columbus police were notified after the reports were received.
Police and school officials talked with families and students who were part of the reported SnapChat group.
Worthington school officials say there is no direct threat to McCord Middle School or any other Worthington schools.
"Please know that we take all threats seriously, and the safety of McCord Middle School is a top priority. Out of an abundance of caution, and to allow the Columbus Police and Counter Terriorism Unit to investigate, we felt it necessary to close school for today," Gnezda said in an emailed statement.
Gnezda also said in the statement that parent-teacher conferences that were scheduled for Tuesday night will still take place.
Police have been requested to be present at the school for the parent-teacher conferences and on Wednesday, when classes resume.
The district will convene its "Threat Assessment Team" to review the incident and to talk about other possible future safety protocols.
