LA Unified closes all schools due to threat

Superintendent Ramon Cortines and other officials said a credible electronic threat was received that threatened multiple schools. The threat was still being analyzed, but the decision to close all schools for the day — affecting 700,000 students and their parents and families — was made in an abundance of caution.

“I think it’s important to take this precaution based on what has happened recently and what has happened in the past,” Cortines said.

The threat reportedly mentioned backpacks and other items left at campuses. All campuses would be searched today, officials said.

From Mayor Eric Garcetti:

I understand the concern families must be feeling this morning, but it is critical we remain calm. This decision has been made by the School District in an abundance of caution. As Mayor, we have shared our support and our intelligence and LAPD is working in collaboration with LAUSD School Police to fully investigate this threat. We have also asked our Emergency Operations Center to be activated and we have arranged for MTA to help by providing free bus rides to all LAUSD students. We will continue to monitor this situation. Nothing is more important to me than the safety of our families.