Federal authorities have joined the McMinnville Police Department to investigate a potential interstate swatting incident in this week’s active shooter threat.
It happened Monday at TCAT McMinnville. Police said the investigation indicates the incident may be connected to a similar event in St. Joseph, Michigan involving a California telephone number. Officials said the matter was referred to federal authorities due to the potential interstate nature of the case.
“False reports involving active shooters or other acts of violence are taken extremely seriously,” McMinnville Police said. “Law enforcement must respond to every report as though the threat is real until officers can determine otherwise.”
The McMinnville Police Department said an automated alert received by a local individual led them to believe an active-shooter incident was occurring at the facility. Officials said the information was reported to School Resource Officers and Warren County 911 for verification, which triggered the emergency response.
“We would especially like to commend the TCAT staff for their response during this incident and for quickly accounting for all students,” the McMinnville Police Department said. “Their preparedness, cooperation, and commitment to student safety were greatly appreciated by responding law enforcement personnel.”
Officers conducted a thorough check of the facility and determined there was no active threat or injuries. Officials said investigators are currently examining the timing and circumstances of the Tennessee and Michigan incidents to determine if a connection exists.
The McMinnville Police Department said the investigation into the source of the false report is continuing.
