ELLIS COUNTY —Hays High School was locked down briefly Friday afternoon after a report of a suspicious backpack in a classroom, according to a message sent to parents.
The district said law enforcement investigated and found no threat or danger to the school. Officials believe this to be an incident of swatting.
Classes dismissed at normal times.
A similar incident occurred at USD 407 in Russell. Just after 2:30 p.m. Friday, the City of Russell issued an alert to avoid the area surrounding Russell High School.
USD 407 Superintendent Shelly Swayne said the school had been put on lockdown after an anonymous threat was called in.
The 911 call indicated there was a suspicious black bag in room 50, Swayne said.
However, Russell High School does not have a room 50.
"We are going through our safety protocols to ensure the safety of our students and our community," Swayne said.
"All kids and staff are safe at this time," she said.