Abbotsford Police Investigating School Threats, Believe It's a Swatting Attempt

Police in Abbotsford, B.C., say they are investigating online threats targeting local schools but believe the incident is likely a swatting attempt — a false report meant to trigger an emergency response.

In a news release Monday morning, the Abbotsford Police Department (AbbyPD) said it is aware of an email and several social media posts that claim acts of violence would occur at various schools in the city.

The department said officers responded to numerous swatting calls over the weekend, and investigators believe Monday's threat follows the same pattern.

“Currently, there is no information to suggest that this threat is real,” AbbyPD said in the statement. “Investigators believe this incident is yet another swatting attempt.”

Swatting involves making false reports to emergency services — often about shootings, bomb threats, or other violent acts — to elicit a heavy police response.

The Abbotsford School District confirmed it was made aware of the threats and contacted police immediately.

“APD has found no evidence to suggest the threat is credible,” the district said in a Facebook post. “Based on their review, we are confident that there is no known risk to our schools, students, or staff.”

AbbyPD says it will continue to investigate the source of the threats and keep the public informed about any developments related to school safety.