Tampa Republic

Tampa Police responded to a report of a suspicious device at Hillsborough High School on January 31, 2024. Following an anonymous 911 call, the school was evacuated and the Bomb Squad was called in to investigate the potential threat.

According to a statement from the Tampa Police Department, officers arrived at the school at approximately 1:27 p.m. and took immediate action to ensure the safety of the students and staff. The campus was cleared as a precautionary measure, and students were not allowed to return until the area was deemed safe.

Officer John Smith, spokesperson for the Tampa Police Department, stated, "We take all reports of potential threats very seriously. In this case, we conducted a thorough investigation and determined that there was no credible threat to the school. The safety of our community is our top priority, and we appreciate the cooperation of the students, faculty, and staff during this incident."

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the police department will release additional information as it becomes available. Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the Tampa Police Department.

Parents and guardians were notified of the situation and were advised to check with the school for updates. The Tampa Police Department worked closely with school administrators to ensure a smooth and orderly dismissal process once the campus was cleared.

The incident at Hillsborough High School serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting any suspicious activity or potential threats to law enforcement. The anonymous 911 call that prompted the evacuation demonstrates the effectiveness of the "See Something, Say Something" campaign, which encourages individuals to report any concerns they may have.

As the investigation continues, the Tampa Police Department is committed to maintaining the safety and security of the community. Officer Smith reaffirmed this commitment, stating, "We will continue to work diligently to keep our schools safe and secure for all students, faculty, and staff."

The incident at Hillsborough High School may have caused some disruption, but thanks to the swift response and thorough investigation by the Tampa Police Department, it was determined that there was no credible threat. Students were able to return to the school for dismissal, and the community can take comfort in knowing that their safety is a top priority for law enforcement.

In the aftermath of the incident, the Tampa Police Department encourages residents to stay vigilant and to report any suspicious activity or potential threats they may encounter. By working together, we can ensure the safety and security of our schools and community.