Schools on security alert due to TikTok-based shooting threat

Dec 16, 2021

Dartmouth’s public schools will see an increased police presence in its buildings Friday amid safety concerns sparked by social media.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, school officials warned parents and others about a viral, nationwide TikTok trend threatening gun violence in schools on Dec. 17.

The threats do not specify where any potential violence would occur, according to school officials.

“While these postings have been deemed to be non-credible, out of an abundance of caution the Dartmouth Police department will be present at our schools throughout the day tomorrow,” the post read.

The district is asking anyone aware of any potential threat posted to social media or anywhere else to notify police or school administrators right away.

“Even if they are not credible threats, they can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety for our students, families, and staff,” the post read.