PR 24-006 - Police and School District Continue to InvestigateQOL'Co
CITY OF
POAf ORCHARD i
May 16, 2024
PORT ORCHARD POLICE DEPARTMENT
SERVICE • HONOR • INTEGRITY
PRESS RELEASE
POLICE AND SCHOOL DISTRICT CONTINUE TO INVESTIGATE SOCIAL MEDIA
THREATS TO SOUTH KITSAP HIGH SCHOOL
On Sunday, May 12, 2024, the Port Orchard Police Department and South Kitsap High School
became aware of social media postings circulating amongst students regarding a potential school
shooting to take place on Monday. Officers from the Port Orchard Police Department collaborated
with school officials and provided an on -campus presence at the high school throughout the day
on Monday, May 13, 2024.
On Monday evening, a new series of social media posts circulated. As the police department
continued to investigate, the school district made the difficult decision to close the South Kitsap
High School campus on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. School was re -opened on Wednesday, May 15,
2024.
The Port Orchard Police Department and South Kitsap School District do not believe the threats
to be credible and recognize the disruption to students over the last several days. As the
investigation continues, additional people and students will be interviewed. Although we do not
believe the threats to be real, the surrounding behavior and false reporting that created fear within
our community is being taken seriously and investigated as felony conduct. As appropriate,
prosecution will be sought through the Kitsap County Prosecutor's Office.
While it is uncommon for credible threats to be made on social media, all threats will be fully
investigated. The safety and well-being of students, and all members of our community, are of the
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(36o) 876-1700 546 Bay Street, Port Orchard, WA 98366
police@portorchardwa.gov www.portorchardwa.gov
upmost importance. We appreciate those who have provided valuable information and encourage
everyone to remain aware and report instances of violence or bullying.
The school district recognizes the impact on students from the stress of the last several days. School
counselors and administrators are ready to provide support to students and parents.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Port Orchard Police
Department via 911 or by email at policegportorchardwa.gov.
Matt Brown
Chief of Police
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Tim Winter
Superintendent, SKSD
(36o) 876-1700 546 Bay Street, Port Orchard, WA 98366
police@portorchardwa.gov www.portorchardwa.gov