By: Richard L. Smith
Montclair schools were closed on Monday, January 13, following an online threat directed at a staff member at Northeast Elementary School, according to the Montclair Police Department.
Officials said Montclair Police received information about the threat on Sunday, January 12, and launched an immediate investigation.
The threat, made on social media, targeted a staff member at Northeast Elementary School on Grove Street.
In response, the Montclair Board of Education, working with law enforcement, decided to close all district schools as a precautionary measure.
The investigation, conducted in collaboration with the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, the FBI, and the Montclair Board of Education, identified the suspect as 45-year-old Amir Doctry, a district staff member currently on administrative leave.
Doctry was taken into custody without incident at a residence in Philadelphia at approximately 8:00 a.m. on January 13.
He has been charged with terroristic threats, with additional charges pending, according to police.
Authorities have increased patrols around Montclair schools to ensure community safety.
“There is no further danger to our community,” police said in a statement, adding that the safety of students, staff, and residents remains their top priority.
The Montclair Police Department has urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.