Henrico Police investigating more ‘hoax’ threats to county schools

One day after a false bomb threat prompted a major public safety response at Hermitage High School, Henrico Police Oct. 11 said they were investigating several similar incidents at county schools Wednesday.

Several schools – including Deep Run, Freeman and Godwin high schools – received what police termed “hoax threat” calls that were similar in nature to the one received at Hermitage Tuesday.

“Henrico Police responded to those schools coordinated with the school administration regarding the safety and security of all students and staff at those locations,” police officials wrote in a statement on social media. “Additionally, police units proactively responded to some large private schools to address any safety concerns they may have had. At this time, all schools have [been] deemed safe.”

Police officials said they were taking all threats seriously and would continue investigating the origin of the calls.

"The preliminary investigation shows this type of hoax call is being made to other schools nationwide," police officials wrote. "As a result, the Henrico County Police Division is utilizing Division resources and area partners to investigate the phone number used during the original call."

An increased police presence will be in place at the schools throughout the day Wednesday.

On Tuesday, in addition to the hoax call made to Hermitage, at least five other schools in central and western Virginia also received hoax threats, possibly as part of a coordinated effort.