Willmar Police, school officials find no credible threats behind rumors

WILLMAR — Willmar Police and Willmar School District officials have investigated rumors about safety issues in the district’s school buildings this week and have found no credible threats to the schools or the community.

Parents have made comments on Facebook about the rumors and have said they may keep their children home from school.

In a news release Wednesday, Police Chief David Wyffels said the department had traced the sources of some of the rumors and taken action.

The Police Department is working with the schools to make sure everyone is safe in the schools, Wyffels said.

“Safety is of utmost importance to both agencies and we are working diligently towards meeting that need,” he said. “The Willmar Police Department in conjunction with Willmar School authorities believe all students should be in school this week.”

Senior High Principal Paul Schmitz said students are upset by the news of the school shooting last week and funeral this week in Newtown, Conn., and that is feeding the rumors. “It is hard to be a 13, 14, or 15-year-old kid and feel safe when you see that on TV,” he said.

Watch www.wctrib.com and our Thursday newspaper for more information.