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Threat Of Gun at Wheeling Park High School

WHEELING — Extra law enforcement officers were on hand at Wheeling Park High School this morning in response to social media posts suggesting possible violence at the school.

Ohio County Schools Assistant Superintendent Rick Jones confirmed extra officers — many of whom also serve as school resource officers — were called to the school this morning as a precaution.

Social media postings made reference to someone possibly bringing a gun to school today as well as reports of racial tension among students.

One post suggested there are two “teams” at the school — “team hick” and “team black” — and students are being asked to take sides. Another post from the father of a WPHS students states that he kept his daughter home from school today because she has been experiencing “a lot of anxiety about the situation.”

Several other parents also contacted the News-Register this morning to say they had pulled their children from school.

Jones said extra police presence is often called when high school administrators are busy with other tasks or are out of the building.

“We have a few extra sheriff’s cars out there and I’m here today. The sheriff’s department is investigating and so far we are dealing with it. It is very safe. I feel really good with two resource officers here every day.”

He said the school system uses social media to promote good things. “The down side of social media is some things can get a little blown out of proportion. There has been no altercation. We are being proactive and are dealing with the kids.”

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