Two students detained after GHS evacuated for bomb threat

Gonzales ISD officials said two students have been detained and are being interviewed by authorities following a possible bomb threat made at Gonzales High School on Wednesday, Feb. 15.

The incident resulted in the evacuation of the high school, with students being bused to Apache Field so they could be reunited with parents and guardians in safety, said Veronica Johannsen, director of communications, marketing, safety and security for the district.

“The threat was reported by a GHS teacher after they overheard student conversation discussing the possible threat,” Johannsen said. “An investigation was launched in coordination with emergency responders, who responded within seven minutes.

“Gonzales campus police and administration swiftly took action and began an investigation. As a safety precaution, and due to the sensitivity of the nature, Gonzales administration made the decision to evacuate all students and staff utilizing the district emergency operation plan.”

Students and staff were moved to Apache Field as part of the district’s emergency operation plan, Johannsen said.

Due to the nature of the report, The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Explosives (ATF), out of San Antonio also assisted and provided an ALL-CLEAR at Gonzales High School when no explosive device was found.  

Two GHS students were detained and were being interviewed by Gonzales Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety to determine any role they may have played in the incident.

“Parents, we ask that you talk with your student about the importance of reporting any suspicious activity and the consequences of participating in this type of activity,” Johannsen said. “Gonzales ISD would like to thank our teacher who reported the incident, GHS staff, and our emergency responders for their commitment in keeping all students and staff safe.”

Agencies taking part in the operation included the Gonzales Police Department (eight officers), GISD Police Department (one officer); Texas Department of Public Safety (nine troopers and four canine handlers/dogs and five criminal investigation agents); three Gonzales County Constables; one Texas Emergency Management agent; one TPWD game warden; three Gonzales Fire Department personnel and two EMTs from Gonzales County Emergency Medical Services.

“This is an ongoing investigation,” Johannsen said. “The Texas Rangers will be assisting with the investigation. We appreciate your partnership in making Gonzales ISD a safe learning environment.”

Johannsen said the school district encourages students “to help us keep our schools safe by reporting concerns on our website.” Anonymous reports can be submitted at https://tips.anonymousalerts.com/gonzalesisd/.