High School Closed After Death Threats

HARTLAND (WWJ) - Investigators say they know who spread death threats that led to the closing of a Livingston County high school Tuesday.

Sheriff Bob Bezotte said administrators at Hartland High School discovered the threats Monday night, which mentioned shooting multiple students.

The 18-year-old student responsible for the threats told investigators he was kidding around with a buddy. Bezotte said the threats spread "like wildfire" via texts and social media, causing panic among students and parents.

Investigators will be meeting with school administrators Tuesday to discuss what Bezotte and his team discovered when they met with the student.

Authorities will then send their case to the Livingston County Prosecutor's office, which will determine what charges will be filed.

Scott Canny, a junior. Hadn't heard about the threat until he arrived. He wasn't worried.

"I think it was a prank. I don't think anything's going to happen," he told WWJ's Ron Dewey. "And now nothin's gonna happen 'cause no one's here. So we're never gonna know."

Angela Canny is a stay-at-home mom, but said she could see how an unexpected day off school may not help other parents who have to be away.

"They have a responsibility. They have to keep the kids safe. So, I think they overreact a little bit, but, you know, they have their job to do," Canny said.

A statement issued by the school said classes were cancelled so administrators could work with the sheriff's department.

Classes will resume Wednesday at the school, which has an enrollment of about 1,600.  The school will reopen at 2:3o p.m. Thursday for athletic events and activities.

School officials say students and parents may notice extra security and police presence on the campus.