Lockdown lifted at two Catasauqua schools after threat

CATASAUQUA BORO, Pa. — Two Catasauqua schools were placed on lockdown Thursday morning after a phone call threatened violence, district officials said.

Catasauqua Middle School and Sheckler Elementary School were locked down as police investigated. The lockdown was lifted shortly before 12:30 p.m., Superintendent Christina Lutz-Doemling told families.

“Police were swift and immediate in their response. The threat has been investigated by police, and Catasauqua Middle School and Sheckler Elementary School have been deemed to be safe and have returned to normal operations,” Lutz-Doemling said. “An increased police presence will remain on our campuses for the remainder of the school day, and counselors will be available for support.”

The district acknowledged the broader climate of school violence in its message.

“We understand the anxiety a situation like this can cause for our families, students, staff and community,” the statement read. “Please know that our top priority is the safety and well-being of our students and staff. We take any and all reports of potential threats seriously, and we are making every effort to maintain an environment where students and staff feel safe.”

The incident came one day after a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis. During a morning Mass on Wednesday, a gunman opened fire, killing two children, ages 8 and 10, and injuring 17 others, including 14 children and three elderly parishioners.

In recent days, more than 11 college campuses, including Villanova University, have reported hoax calls and false alarms, underscoring growing safety concerns at schools nationwide.