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'Credible' threat closes Stoneham HS

E-mail|Link|Comments () May 27, 2009 02:15 PM

By David Abel, Globe Staff

STONEHAM -- Officials closed Stoneham High School today after receiving a "specific, credible threat" about a potential attack at the school about 10 miles north of Boston.

Police said at a news conference this afternoon that someone threw a brick through the window of the vice principal's office overnight. An envelope with a note was attached to the brick, which was discovered by custodians at about 6:30 a.m.

"After reading the note, we thought it credible enough," said Stoneham Police Chief Richard Bongiorno.

The note discussed specific types of explosive devices and other weapons, Bongiorno said, but he would not provide other details. Seven police dogs spent the day searching the school for explosives, but they found nothing, Bongiorno said.

Stoneham School Superintendent Les E. Olson said he would decide by 8 p.m. whether the high school would reopen on Thursday. Families of the high school's 800 students and 90 staff members will be informed by an automated phone message.

Investigators have no reason to believe the note was a prank, Bongiorno said. Police are reviewing footage from surveillance cameras as the school. Those responsible could be charged with a felony.

"The investigation is fluid and ongoing," Bongiorno said.

Sounding Off

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