4 p.m.
A hold and secure order for Centennial Secondary School in Coquitlam is no longer in place.
Coquitlam RCMP have confirmed that they investigated a 'third-party threat' at the school earlier in the day. However, they have identified and located a youth from another jurisdiction, who is believed to be the source of the threat.
"There is no continued threat to the public or the school. The school lifted their hold and secure with classes resuming as normal," RCMP stated in a news release.
However, an investigation is continuing.
It was necessary to secure the building as a precaution, the Mounties further stated.
“We take any threat to a school very seriously and will act accordingly. Out of abundance of caution, the school and nearby recreation centre were placed under a hold and secure order. This was to ensure the safety of the public as police continued the investigation,” said Cpl. Alexa Hodgins, media relations officer.
“Coquitlam RCMP would like to thank the Coquitlam School District for their assistance in this matter and the public for their patience and understanding.”
Police are asking anyone with information regarding this incident or have information to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2023-26202.
11:30 a.m.
Students at Coquitlam's Centennial Secondary School are being told to stay in class by Coquitlam Mounties due to a police incident in the area.
The Shelter in Place notice was issued by the school administration this morning, Sept. 28.
According to the statement from Bryan Jackson, Centennial students can move freely within the high school and classes are continuing for the day.
"Any student who needs to leave the school during the Shelter in Place will be required to report to the office in order to communicate with parents for release," the announcement states.
"Once we receive notification that the police matter is resolved, we will let you know."
The announcement advises students who are not at the Poirier Street high school, and others, to not come to the building at this time.
In a statement, Coquitlam RCMP confirmed to the Tri-City News that police are on scene at Poirier Street and Winslow Avenue for "an unfolding event."
"Out of abundance of caution, the public recreation centre and nearby school have been placed in a hold and secure," wrote Cpl. Alexa Hodgins.
"However, there is no reason to believe that there is a risk to the public at this time."
School District 43 (SD43) spokesperson Ken Hoff told the Tri-City News that school officials have closed the exterior doors to Centennial, as recommended by RCMP.
More to come….
