MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – UPDATE 1/12/24: The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) says a threat to bring a weapon to school prompted the lockdown at East Marion Elementary School on Thursday.

MCSO says the lockdown and law enforcement response was a precaution.

“A thorough search of the school and nearby area was conducted, but no credible threat was located,” said Zach Moore, public information officer.

MCSO says detectives are investigating the origin of the threat. They say if the individual is identified, charges will almost certainly follow.

UPDATE, 9:28 a.m.: MCSO deputies say they have cleared the school and surrounding property. They say the threat was unsubstantiated and the school lockdown has been lifted.

PREVIOUSLY, 9:00 a.m.: The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) says they are investigating a threat at East Marion Elementary School.

They say there is an increased law enforcement presence at the school on NE 14th Street Rd in Silver Springs.

MCSO says law enforcement have placed the students on lockdown until deputies can ensure there is no danger to the students and staff.

Deputies have asked parents to not respond to pick up children at this time. They say school officials will notify parents once everything is clear.

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