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School News

UPDATE: 2nd search after bomb threat at Saucon Valley schools finds no evidence of explosives

Saucon Valley Middle School
Donna S. Fisher
/
For LehighValleyNews.com
Saucon Valley Middle School

LOWER SAUCON TWP., Pa. — Police say a second search of Saucon Valley schools Thursday found no evidence to corroborate a bomb threat made the night before.

"Police are continuing their investigation to follow any leads to locate the sources of the threats," township police said Thursday afternoon.

"Lower Saucon police will have an increased presence at the school campus tomorrow, Friday, March 22, 2024."

Thursday's search included explosive detection teams and bomb-sniffing dogs from the Bethlehem Police Department, Palmer Township Police Department, Northampton County Sheriff's Office and Pennsylvania State Police, authorities said.

Police said they have not determined if the second threat was related to the first Tuesday night. The first threat led to the cancellation of classes and activities Wednesday.

A second bomb threat was received Wednesday night, prompting Thursday's school closure.

Saucon Valley School District officials circulated an email Wednesday night, which Lower Saucon Township Councilman Jason Banonis read aloud at the panel's bimonthly public meeting.

“The school district will not be transporting students. All offices will be closed. Updated information on after school activities, meetings and athletics will be provided tomorrow,” the district email read.

“I recognize that’s highly disruptive to working families and certainly to educating our youth, and it’s very unfortunate," Banonis said of the school closing.

“I hope that our police get to the bottom of it and hold those responsible.”

“The school district will not be transporting students. All offices will be closed. Updated information on afterschool activities, meetings and athletics will be provided tomorrow."
Saucon Valley School District

Before Wednesday evening's announcement, classes were expected to start back again Thursday with a ramped-up police presence.

"There is a collaborative effort between between the police department and the school district to ensure the safety of the students and staff of Saucon Valley School District," police said.

Anyone who may have additional information is asked to submit a tip through the Crimewatch Tipline at www.lowersauconpolice.org or by contact Det. Cpl. Eric Marth at emarth@lowersaucontownship.org or 610-625-8722.