Authorities in Essex County are investigating a threat reportedly made to schools in East Orange today.
While there were no reports of a lockdown, shelter in place, or evacuation, officials found the threat serious enough to add enforced security measures around all schools.
The following is a statement sent to district educators around noon today from Superintendent Hasan:
"We have been made aware of a Social media threat made against Newark and East Orange Public Schools.
This was a general threat and appears to be an attempt to cause panic and disrupt school.
The threat was reported to law enforcement, and the Essex County Prosecutor's Office is overseeing the investigation.
At this time, we are treating this matter seriously and are asking everyone to ensure that ALL building staff are extra vigilant out of an abundance of caution.
The EOPD has advised they will have an increased presence in the area of our schools throughout the day and through dismissal".
East Orange city officials did not respond to requests for information on the matter.