Massive Swatting Hoax Hits Over 40 Florida School Districts: Fake Bomb Threats Unveil Security Challenges

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In Citrus County, Florida, authorities revealed that over 36 school districts across the state were targeted with a hoax bomb threat via email on Tuesday, part of a widespread “swatting” incident. This was confirmed by the Citrus County School District.

On Tuesday evening, Citrus School Police Chief Rachel Montgomery communicated with parents about the situation, assuring them of their children’s safety.

The email, which was sent to at least 46 districts, contained a fabricated bomb threat. However, officials confirmed there were no specific details or threats directed towards any particular school.

“We have no reason to believe there’s a real threat to our schools,” stated Montgomery. “Our priority is to keep our parents informed to avoid unnecessary panic and misinformation.”

Local and state law enforcement agencies were working to investigate the matter Tuesday, and officials in Citrus County said their schools will remain open and operate on a normal schedule.

The School Board of Highlands County also commented on the matter Tuesday night, writing that the hoax bomb threat was similar to ones sent across the state in the past.

“This appears to be a non-credible, generic threat that was sent to numerous school superintendents and officials throughout the state of Florida, and is not specific to Highlands County,” the school board said. “We do not believe this threat to be credible whatsoever.”

No further information was immediately available.

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