Central Nova News

Alexandria, Va. - This afternoon, the City of Alexandria Police Department received multiple calls threatening the safety of two Alexandria City Public Schools. The APD takes every threat to public safety seriously. The investigation today revealed no threat or danger.

At approximately 12:04 p.m., APD responded to Charles Barrett Elementary School (1115 Martha Cutis Drive) after receiving a call of someone going to the school with guns. Multiple officers, K9s, and Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) responded and began searching the school. School administrators made the decision to evacuate and move students to Cora Kelly School (3600 Commonwealth Avenue) to allow APD to conduct an extensive search. APD assisted and remained with students and faculty who were relocated to Cora Kelly School. APD completed the search of Charles Barrett and determined there was no threat.  

While police were on scene, additional calls were received claiming more threats, the last calls indicating the threats were directed at Cora Kelly School where police were already positioned and were able to determine there was no threat.  

Police remained on the scene for general dismissal. The APD continues to investigate with the support of federal authorities who have offered their assistance.  

If you have any information regarding this incident please call 703-746-4444. Tips will remain anonymous.

These threats are believed to have been incidents of “swatting”.  

Swatting is a term used to describe criminal activity by an individual or group who knowingly provides false information to police suggesting that a threat exists, causing a police or emergency services response.  

Swatting is a criminal offense and can be punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor up to a Class 6 felony with up to five years imprisonment.

For more information contact:

Tracy Walker, APD Communications Manager, tracy.walker@alexandriava.gov

Original source can be found here.