Rochester Catholic Elementary Evacuated Due to Threats Thursday Receives Discredited Threat Friday

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- The Rochester elementary school that was evacuated due to a threat situation Thursday received another threat ahead of the school day Friday. 

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That’s according to an email sent to families of students at Holy Spirit Catholic school by Rochester Catholic Schools President Tina Monosmith Friday morning. 

The email says the call, which came into 911 dispatch as was “quickly discredited.” 

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“Please note that all law enforcement agencies have determined that there is no legitimate concern. We are grateful to RPD for their swift response and ongoing proactive efforts to ensure the well-being of our school community,” Monoseth wrote. 

Rochester Police Increase Presence at Catholic Schools Day After Threats Forced Evacuation & Early Dismissal

The email also says there is an increased Rochester Police Department presence at the five schools that make up the Rochester Catholic School District. 

All five buildings were dismissed early on Thursday after Holy Spirit Catholic Elementary, which serves students ages pre-k to 5th grade, received threatening phone calls placed to its office around 9 a.m. 

Students at the elementary school were evacuated to nearby Gibbs Elementary school, where their families picked them up. 

Read More: Threats Prompt Early Dismissal of Rochester Catholic Schools 

A news release issued Thursday by Rochester police said no threat was found after a sweep of the building. Rochester Catholic Schools informed families that all students and staff were safe. 

Police indicated the threats were similar to swatting incidents seen at schools across the country and said the preliminary investigation found Thursday’s threatening calls likely did not originate in Minnesota. 

“RPD takes all threats seriously and remains committed to the safety of our community, our schools and places of worship,” the news release said.