The Atherton Police Department has issued an update on the investigation into the possible threat at Menlo-Atherton High School. This update follows initial reports from September 10, when the department was alerted about a potential threat from a former student through the school's tip line. According to the Atherton Police Department, the individual attends another local high school and posted concerning content on social media, sparking the investigation.
In the statement released on their official website, the Atherton Police Department sought to clarify several misinformation disseminated in the media. Clarifying facts unveiled that no weapon was found during the investigation. It was a portrayal of ammunition magazines on social media, and most importantly, there were no firearms depicted, contrary to what some reports have incorrectly inferred. Additionally, both Menlo-Atherton High School and the neighboring Laurel School enacted "secure campus" orders as a precaution, with students and staff sheltered from approximately 12:50 PM to 2:00 PM.
The subject of the investigation, identified as a juvenile, was located the same day the threat was reported. Law enforcement authorities have emphasized that there was never a continuous threat to the public's safety. Police collaboration with the local schools, other law enforcement agencies, and the District Attorney's Office is underway as they thoroughly examine the circumstances.
