Dracut Police, Schools Investigate After Student Overheard Comments about Possible Act of Violence at Middle School

DRACUT — Police Chief Peter Bartlett and Superintendent of Schools Steven Stone report that police and school administrators conducted an investigation Friday after a student overheard a possible threat at the Richardson Middle School.

At approximately 10 a.m., a student reported that they overhead a conversation between two other students in a hallway. The conversation included a reference to a school shooting to occur at the school that day. The student immediately reported what they heard. Administrators immediately identified the students in question and notified the Dracut Police Department. Officers were on scene within minutes to initiate an investigation. It was quickly determined that there was no threat or danger to the school community.

Principal Maria McGuinness notified middle school families of the situation via an automated phone call and the school day continued without interruption.

“Comments related to potential harm towards any member of our school community, whether they are made with or without intent, are taken seriously and are not tolerated in our schools,” said Superintendent Stone.

Added Chief Bartlett: “This is an excellent example of see something, say something. In this case, we were quickly able to determine that there was no danger, but the student absolutely did the right thing in reporting what they overheard.”

No charges have been filed, and the school district is in communication with the families of the students involved.