Stettler RCMP say source of school threat ‘may not have been legitimate’

Apr 17, 2026 | 4:07 PM

Stettler RCMP report that a youth who was arrested for allegedly making threats through Snapchat to shoot students at William E. Hay School in Stettler has been released without charges.

Police say in an update Friday, that after continued investigation, they were unable to verify the veracity of the initial source of the threat.

“Although police believe the initial reports received from concerned complainants were made in good faith, the initial source of the threat may not have been legitimate,” RCMP wrote in the release. “While RCMP continue the investigation, student safety remains our top priority.”

Mounties said in the initial release that they received reports of the threats at 10:15 a.m. on April 15, and officers quickly obtained evidence to support an arrest.

The individual youth suspect was taken into custody and faced charges for uttering threats.

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RCMP said at the time they did not believe there was an ongoing risk to students and staff.

Clearview Public Schools said in an emailed statement on April 16, they were made aware of a potential threat involving William. E. Hay School on Wednesday evening.

“The RCMP were also notified at that time and responded immediately. We have been advised that the individual involved is currently with the RCMP, and their investigation is ongoing,” as stated in the email.

“Based on the information available, the decision was made to keep the school open. Out of an abundance of caution, additional safety measures are in place at both Wm. E. Hay School and Stettler Elementary School, including secured entrances and the presence of staff and RCMP at entry points. RCMP also remain on site to support the schools. The safety of our students and staff is always our highest priority. We take all potential threats seriously and continue to work closely with the RCMP to ensure our schools remain safe learning environments.”

by Ian Gustafson

Stettler RCMP say source of school threat ‘may not have been legitimate’

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