What was supposed to be a routine Friday at Waterford School in Sandy turned into an abrupt campus evacuation after administrators said the school received a bomb threat, prompting a swift police response and an early end to the day.
School leaders told families that everyone on campus had been accounted for and that staff were directing drivers to take students home rather than wait out the situation. Afternoon bus service was canceled while law enforcement conducted a sweep of the grounds, and Sandy police stayed on scene as the investigation continued.
According to KUTV, the school messaged families, saying, "We are accounting for students and sending drivers home," and added that "afternoon buses will not bring students to campus." The station published photos of officers and school staff gathered outside the building as crews checked the campus. Waterford told the outlet it would share additional details as Sandy Police moved forward with their investigation.
About the school
The Waterford website describes the campus as a private liberal-arts, college-preparatory school serving preschool through 12th grade, highlighting its athletics, arts and academic programs. The site notes calendars and community events for families and points to the school’s location on Sandy’s east bench.
Broader trend
As reported by the U.S. Department of Justice, an 18-year-old was charged on May 27 with making dozens of hoax bomb calls to schools in Ohio, part of a recent wave of similar incidents. Local reporting has also detailed how "swatting" — hoax emergency calls meant to provoke large police responses — has forced precautions and disrupted campuses across the country, according to coverage from WSMV.
According to KUTV, Sandy police continued to investigate at the scene, and Waterford told families it would provide updates through its usual communication channels. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
