Portsmouth

Man Facing Charges for Threat at Portsmouth, NH High School

Classes were canceled districtwide after a threat that was directed toward the city's high school

NBC10 Boston

School was canceled in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on Thursday, after a video on social media threatened violence at the city's high school, according to a note from the district's superintendent.

The Portsmouth Police Department received a video of someone saying that they would commit a school shooting at Portsmouth High School, Superintendent Zach McLaughlin wrote Wednesday night, explaining the decision to call off classes for the day districwide.

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"As we are not currently in a position to feel that the threat is yet resolved, we need to make a decision regarding tomorrow’s school day," the message said. "Out of an abundance of caution and a commitment to the safety of our school community, all Portsmouth Schools will be closed tomorrow, April 13th."

"I just want to acknowledge the emotions of a moment like this," McLaughlin wrote. "It can be laced with fear, anger, and sadness. Amid this challenging time, we appreciate your support as we do our best to keep our students and staff safe."

The school district said it would provide updates as the investigation unfolded.

The New Hampshire Department of Safety's Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management said it was aware of the threat and continues to work with local, state and federal partners "to ensure that schools in New Hampshire remain safe."

Portsmouth police said on Thursday afternoon that they had identified the suspect in the video as 25-year-old Kyle Hendrickson, who is known to frequent the New Hampshire seacoast and southern Maine. They said charges are forthcoming.

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