NEWS RELEASE
City of Carbondale, Illinois
April 12, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CARBONDALE – Carbondale Police Department responded to a hoax call regarding an active shooter at Carbondale Community High School at 9:59 a.m. The School Resource Officer was present, and additional officers arrived within two minutes, but no threats were discovered.
Unfortunately, similar hoax (swatting) calls elicited this response at schools across the state.
“It's regrettable that schools become targets of such incidents, but we are grateful for the swift and serious action taken by the Carbondale Police to ensure the safety of students and staff. We extend our appreciation to the administration, teachers, students, and staff for their cooperation during this time," said Superintendent Daniel Booth.
Carbondale Police contacted the elementary district, which then initiated a lockdown as a precautionary measure.
“Despite it being a hoax call, we take every threat seriously and respond accordingly. Our officers acted swiftly and professionally to ensure the safety of all involved. I want to extend a special thank you to our School Resource Officer for her quick thinking and expertise in handling the situation,” said Police Chief Stan Reno.
At 10:45 a.m., Carbondale Community High School resumed its usual activities.
We urge the public to refrain from making false reports, as it puts unnecessary strain on emergency responders and the community as a whole.
“The mission of the Carbondale Police Department is to work in partnership with our community to preserve life, protect human rights, protect property and improve quality of life by providing police service to all in a fair, sensitive and professional manner.”
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