Chicago

Oak Lawn Schools Shut Down Amid Serious Threat to Kolmar School, Police Investigation Underway

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Published on January 30, 2026
Oak Lawn Schools Shut Down Amid Serious Threat to Kolmar School, Police Investigation UnderwaySource: Unsplash/MChe Lee

Oak Lawn's District 123 took decisive action, closing all its schools on Friday, following a disturbing threat aimed at Kolmar School, as WGN-TV reported earlier today. The district received the threat in the morning, and rather than transitioning to eLearning, a complete shutdown was ordered, putting a halt to regular academic activities and leaving the district's buildings eerily empty.

In a statement obtained by WGN-TV, the district extended its concern regarding the distress caused by such threats, assuring that "Our priority is the safety of students and staff, and we will continue to communicate clearly as we learn more." Despite the disquieting nature of the situation, official details remained sparse as Oak Lawn police declined to offer additional insights into the ongoing investigation.

In a similar vein, District Superintendent Paul J. Enderle addressed families, conveying the gravity of the situation, prompting this sudden 'emergency closing day', as detailed by NBC Chicago. Enderle strongly advised against visiting any school facilities unless directed by either the district or law enforcement. He further encouraged anyone with pertinent information to come forward to assist the Oak Lawn Police Department in their efforts to address and neutralize the possible threat.