ADAMS TWP — The Mars Area School District received an inflammatory text message threatening violence at the middle school Tuesday, said Superintendent Wes Shipley. It was the second threat against the district in as many days.

Shipley said township police were notified immediately and acted quickly to apprehend a suspect. He termed the threat “non-credible” in a message to parents on the district's website Tuesday evening. “Through their immediate investigation, police officials have identified and arrested the individual responsible for the message.”

Shipley said classes in all schools will resume Wednesday, but will have increased security to ensure safety.

Earlier threat

On Monday, the evening activities at Mars Area High School were canceled after threats were made during the school day.

In a letter posted on its website, the district said the step was taken as a “precautionary measure.”

Shipley said the threat had no merit.

According to the letter, a high school student on Monday allegedly distributed a “potentially threatening” mass email to students in grades nine through 12. Shipley said the email helped school officials track down the perpetrator.

The letter said the student also allegedly placed a “threatening message” on the wall of a boys bathroom. Adam Township Police determined both threats were unsubstantiated.

“School did not dismiss early because everything was taken care of prior to the end of the school day,” Shipley said of Monday's incident. “Almost immediately.”

“Because our police force has two ATPD officers ... the Adams Township police were involved from the beginning,” Shipley said.

“It was pretty cut and dry,” said Shawn Anglum, Adams Township Police chief.

The suspected student was “turned over to local police to face criminal charges,” according to the letter.

The suspected student in the first incident is a juvenile. He confessed to the incidents, according to police.

School proceeded as normal Tuesday.

Shipley: Talk to your children

Shipley also noted the severity of these threats and their consequences.

“Such threats not only cause unnecessary disruption to the school day; but also come with serious consequences that may include expulsion; hefty fines; and even jail time,” he said.

Shipley said parents should talk to their children about these consequences to dissuade further threats.

On behalf of the district, Shipley praised police and emergency personnel for their diligence and commitment.

“The District would also like to thank our students, parents, and teachers/staff members for their patience and cooperation as we worked to resolve this matter,” Shipley said.

Shipley reminded the public that the district has bag checks, metal detectors, armed police officers and security personnel in each school building.

“We take the safety and security of our students and staff as paramount within our schools,” Shipley said.

Eagle reporter Nathan Bottiger contributed to this story.