Wayne County schools respond to multiple fake threats at Charles B. Aycock High School

Wayne County Public Schools and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office said Friday they have responded to multiple threats and rumors of threats at Charles B. Aycock High School. All of the threats have later been proven to have been hoaxes.

“The first social media threat hoax occurred on Wednesday afternoon and essentially stated that a shooting was going to occur on Thursday at the school,” stated Ken Derksen, Wayne County schools executive director. “As is our protocol, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office was immediately notified to begin a full investigation. During the investigation, a second social media threat began circulating at the school on Friday.”

Investigators with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office said that students shared two separate Snapchat screenshots that appeared to be communicating a threat of violence at the school.

During the investigation, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office determined that the posts were created with the intent to create fear and panic.

Wayne County schools said there are no credible threats of violence at Charles B. Aycock High School.

Law enforcement officials warn that threats of violence against schools, even those that turn out to be false or misinterpreted, are thoroughly investigated by law enforcement and can lead to severe consequences.

"We take all threats very seriously," stated Wayne County Sheriff Larry Pierce. "Spreading false messages on social media is dangerous for parents, students, and first responders. If you see something suspicious online, you should immediately report it to school officials for a proper investigation to take place."

Anyone with information regarding these incidents is asked to contact Detective Sgt. Matthew Sellers with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office at (919) 731-1375.