Russell Police Department
At about 3:14 p.m. Monday, Russell County Communications received call regarding a bomb threat at Russell Junior-Senior High School (RJSHS).
Immediately, a coordinated response was initiated from USD 407 administration and law enforcement officers with the Russell Police Department and Russell County Sheriff’s Office. The immediate response included an immediate sweep of the RJSHS building and grounds and increased law enforcement presence at Bickerdyke and Simpson elementary schools.
Around 4 p.m. the RJSHS was deemed safe for students to be released from school following an initial sweep by a K-9 with the Kansas Highway Patrol’s Hazardous Device Unit.
At 5:40 p.m. a complete search and sweep of the RJSHS premises was completed by the Kansas Highway Patrol Hazardous Device K-9 Unit which yielded negative results.
The Russell Police Department acknowledges the inconvenience of this event and its effect regarding school dismissal; however, the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff was and remains the highest priority.
Officials want to reassure the community that strong coordination among local and state law enforcement agencies continues to help ensure a safe environment for all students and employees.
The incident remains under investigation, and no further details will be released at this time.