Suspect in custody after West Valley school takes extra precautions in response to online threat

PHOENIX – A suspect is now in custody after a West Valley charter school said it was taking extra precautions on Friday after being targeted by an online threat.

The principal at Imagine Prep at Surprise sent families a letter Thursday about the safeguards, which include the cancellation of two basketball games.

“Early this evening, the school was informed and viewed a threatening message posted on social media regarding tomorrow. As soon as the message was viewed, school administrators immediately began an investigation and contacted the local authorities,” wrote Principal Daniel Hattley.

The letter did not provide details about the nature of the online threat or where it was posted.

The Surprise Police Department said the incident is under investigation and more information will be released when available.

Hattley commended multiple students who “saw something and said something.”

“Working together as a team, we can maintain a safe environment for all,” he wrote.

How did Imagine Prep at Surprise respond to online threat?

The letter listed the following precautions for Friday:

• Police will be at the campus throughout the school day.
• School administrators cleared their calendars and will be present around campus all day, until students are dismissed.
• All visitors must show a picture ID to enter the building.
• Additional staff will be assigned for morning arrival, lunch periods and dismissal.
• All student activities will be kept indoors, with the outdoor dining area and field closed.
• Two home basketball games — varsity girls and junior varsity boys — were canceled. Away games will be played.
• Practices before and after school were all canceled.

Imagine Prep at Surprise, which is located at 14850 N. 156th Ave., near Reems and Greenway roads, serves middle and high school students.

It is part of the Imagine Schools charter school network, which has a presence in seven states. Imagine Schools operates 12 campuses and an online academy in Arizona.

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