Writing on Havre High bathroom wall being treated as vandalism

Despite an increased law enforcement presence in the district, Havre Public Schools Superintendent Andy Carlson said this morning that the district is no longer using the word "threat" to refer to an incident that took place Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. at Havre High School.

"We're treating it more like vandalism at this point," Carlson said.

A cryptic message was discovered Wednesday written on the second floor boy's bathroom of the high school.

Carlson declined to say exactly what the message said.

After law enforcement and school officials determined the message was "unsubstantiated," the district decided to hold classes today, a release from the district said.

Carlson said nothing new to report was available this morning and the district is still working with police to investigate the cryptic message.

"We want to keep working with the local police just in case if there is any possible threat, we can stop it," he said.

Havre police have increased their presence at the high school today and the department and Hill County Sheriff's Office have increased patrols through the school district.

Carlson added that they addressed the message with students because it could cause an education disruption.

A release from the district said it is working with the Havre Police Department in investigating the incident. Investigation, including viewing video surveillance, interviews and staff member assistance, "has been vital in determining the credibility of this specific message," the release said.

It added that any threats of harm or questionable messages are taken seriously and people should report them promptly to authorities.

The message this week follows school shootings across the nation, including the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland Florida in February that killed 17, and threats found last school year in Havre High School and Havre Middle School.