FBI Investigates School Threats — Hoax Calls Trigger Lockdowns and Panic at Multiple Pennsylvania Schools

On May 4, a series of fake threats was made targeting schools across the Philadelphia suburbs. It caused panic, forced lockdowns, and kick-started an ongoing federal investigation, according to authorities.

The FBI said it is working with local and state agencies after multiple schools in Bucks, Montgomery, and Chester counties received similar fake calls on May 4. Officials said no credible threat was found, but the incidents caused major disruption.

"FBI Philadelphia is aware of a series of hoax threats made to schools across our area this morning. Currently, we have no information indicating a credible threat,” the agency noted in a statement. The bureau also said it is working to identify and hold those responsible and urged the public to report such incidents.

The most serious call came just before 8 a.m. at Pennsbury High School East Campus. According to school officials, a caller claimed he was on his way with an assault rifle and a pipe bomb. The call came from a California number.

Police responded immediately. The school was placed on secure hold. Buses were rerouted, and students were either brought inside or sent home. By mid-morning, investigators determined the threat was false. Still, the school was shut down for the rest of the day.

Other schools reported similar incidents. Plymouth Whitemarsh High School received a hoax call but stayed open with a strong police presence. Conestoga High School went into lockdown before returning to a normal run once officers cleared the scene. Calls were also reported at Harboro-Horsham, Council Rock North, Palisade, and North Penn high schools.

Officials described the incident as swatting, a tactic where fake threats are made to trigger emergency responses.

Governor Josh Shapiro said the calls were “cruel swatting incidents.” He wrote, “Swatting is illegal - and I’ve directed the PA State Police to work with our local partners and use every resource at their disposal to find whoever called in these fake threats and hold them accountable.”

He added, “This was a scary morning for parents, students, and educators alike. I’m grateful no one was hurt.” School leaders said the events shook their communities. Pennsbury Superintendent Tom Smith said the day created a stressful and uncertain environment, but praised students and staff for following safety steps.

Colonial School District Superintendent Michael L. Christian said the situation was “unsettling” and confirmed an active investigation. At Council Rock North, administrators called the lockdown “worrisome” but commended staff for taking care of students. Authorities have not identified any suspects. It is still unclear if the calls are linked. The investigation is currently ongoing.