Police responded to multiple Richmond Hill schools Monday after a series of threatening calls believed to be “swatting” incidents, but no credible threats were found.
By Staff Writer
A wave of threatening calls targeting schools in Richmond Hill prompted a major police response on Monday, with York Regional Police investigating what appear to be “swatting” incidents affecting multiple schools across the community.
According to reports circulating among parents and school communities, as many as eight schools received threatening calls during the day. Police attended the affected schools and conducted searches, but no credible threats or dangerous situations were found.
York Regional Police has not yet released a detailed public statement identifying all schools involved, but officers were seen responding to several campuses as a precautionary measure. No injuries were reported.
“Swatting” refers to false emergency calls intended to trigger a large police deployment, often involving tactical or emergency response units. The incidents can cause major disruption, fear among students and parents, and significant strain on emergency services.
The Richmond Hill incidents follow a growing pattern of similar hoax threats in Ontario and across Canada in recent years.
Earlier this month, a school in Markham was temporarily investigated after what police described as a swatting call. In March, multiple schools in the Niagara Region were placed into hold-and-secure procedures after threats that were later determined not to be credible.
Police services across Ontario have repeatedly warned that swatting incidents consume significant emergency resources while creating panic for students, staff and families.
York Regional Police continue to encourage anyone with information about threatening calls or suspicious online activity to contact investigators.