High school in Columbia evacuated after threat, officials say
A high school in Columbia was evacuated Tuesday morning.
Spring Valley High was evacuated because of a threat, Richland 2 school district officials said at about 8:50 a.m. The school is on Sparkleberry Lane, not far from the intersection with Two Notch Road.
Information about the threat was not available. It was an email that was “threatening in nature” and was sent to the staff of Spring Valley from a student account, Richland 2 spokesperson Carmen Rhone said.
Both law enforcement and Richland 2 security said they do not believe the threat is credible.
Despite that, deputies are performing precautionary sweeps at Spring Valley High School as they investigate the threat.
All school buses with students at Spring Valley High were sent home, according to Richland 2. Additionally, student drivers were dismissed and parents can pick up students from the stadium, officials said. Parents are told to bring proper identification.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department said there is no timetable for when the sweeps will be completed, and there is no word when, or if, the school will be reopened to staff and employees.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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This story was originally published January 31, 2023 at 9:04 AM.