Augusta County, VA – Officials have confirmed there is no credible threat to students or staff at Fort Defiance High School after reports of possible chatter about an attack circulated Tuesday morning.
According to the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were deployed to the Fort Defiance campus out of an abundance of caution while investigators worked with school administrators to determine the source of the information. Sheriff Donald L. Smith said that the investigation is now complete and no threat was found.
Classes and activities at Augusta County Public Schools will continue as scheduled, with the matter being handled internally as a personnel issue, officials said. Sheriff Smith emphasized that the physical and emotional safety of students and staff remains the highest priority.
Although no credible danger was identified, law enforcement presence will remain heightened around the Fort Defiance campus throughout the day to reassure families and the community. The sheriff’s office is also reviewing the case with the Augusta County Commonwealth’s Attorney to determine if charges are appropriate.
The sheriff’s office also noted that a previously scheduled 9/11 remembrance ceremony took place Tuesday morning at Clymore Elementary School. That event included law enforcement, fire and rescue, and military members, which contributed to an increased presence of first responders in the area.
Authorities encouraged residents to remain calm, stressing that there is no confirmed threat to students, staff, or the public.
