The Ponca City Police Department and Ponca City Public Schools became aware of a social media threat against Ponca City High School made by a person not at the school on Wednesday afternoon.
The high school was locked down and Ponca City Police, the Kay County Sheriff’s Office, O.S.B.I. and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol responded. A perimeter was established while officers investigated the threat and its origins.
“Thanks to the professionalism and quick and deliberate actions of our administration, teachers and staff at Ponca City High School, the Ponca City Police Department quickly resolved and assessed the situation. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority. Continual practice of lockdown drills helps everyone stay calm and respond in a way that leads to the safest resolution,” said Superintendent Shelley Arrott.
“We have such a great working and communication relationship with the Ponca City Police Department so we are trained to respond to situations appropriately. We are so appreciative that PCPD always keeps our students and staff safe.”
Police chief Don Bohon said based on information gathered, a juvenile male was arrested in Newkirk by the Kay County Sheriff’s Office at 1:47 p.m. “After further investigation, another juvenile male was taken into custody at the high school to be questioned about knowledge of the threats,” said Bohon.
“During the lockdown, another juvenile male was taken into custody to be questioned about an incident unrelated to the threats,” according to Bohon.
The lockdown was released at 2:15 p.m.
