Sonora ISD found on online ‘shooting targets’ list — again
SAN ANGELO, Texas ( Concho Valley Homepage ) — Sonora ISD schools saw an increased law enforcement presence on Sept. 13 after the district was reportedly found on a list of school shooting targets circulating online. This isn't the first time this has happened, though.
According to a public statement issued on the morning of Sept. 13, Sonora ISD Superintendent Michael Kissire was notified by the Sonora Police Department and Sutton County Sheriff's Office during the night of Sept. 12 that "Sonora was added to a list that is being circulated on social media" that "references school shooting targets."
Despite the nature of the list, Kissire stated that "it is not believed that Sonora ISD is in danger at this time" and that the school will continue operating as normal. He said that all safety measures have been "enhanced to protect everyone," however.
Kissire also stated in the announcement that Sonora ISD was involved in a similar situation during the previous school year when the district was found on another list of schools that was circulating online. Although the district wasn't initially on the list, it would eventually be added as the list continued to be propagated digitally.
"As time went on, the list added schools and eventually added Sonora ISD," Kissire said. "We enhanced our safety measures at that time, and we are addressing this threat with the same dedication to safety."
The superintendent said that Sonora ISD is communicating with area law enforcement to coordinate its response. He also stated that there would be a "stronger-than-normal law enforcement presence" near the district's schools on Sept. 13.
Kissire asks community members to report suspicious activity, behavior or items to area law enforcement.
"We welcome the watchful eyes of our community in every effort to keep our school safe," Kissire said.
He also promised that Sonora ISD would communicate with the community should any changes be made to its operations.
"Thank you for trusting us with your children," Kissire said.
