A 16-year-old has been charged after a “threatening email” was sent to Bayfield High School in Dunedin this morning.
Around 550 students and staff were escorted off the premises after police were alerted to the email around 8.17am, police said.
Bayfield High School’s website stated that it was in lockdown and would be closing for the day as a precaution.
“We are going to do a managed evacuation as follows: We ask that students are collected by parents or caregivers – pick up point is Musselburgh Rise by the bus stop which will be manned by Police,” it read.
At around 1.30pm, police carried out a search of a Dunedin property, where a 16-year-old was arrested without incident.
They are due to appear in the Dunedin Youth Court on Thursday charged with threatening to kill.
“We understand incidents like this can be distressing, and we hope this arrest can provide reassurance to the community,” Detective Senior Sergeant Nik Leigh said.
“Police is providing those involved with support and will continue to investigate what has taken place.
“Police is working with the school, and further charges may be likely.”
