Manhattan, KS – Manhattan High School West Campus was cleared around 4:40 p.m. this afternoon after a graffiti message that was found in a school bathroom circulated over Snapchat causing the school to go on lockdown. The message was perceived as a threat to a planned pep rally.

Shortly before 2:00 p.m. Friday afternoon, our School Resource Officer at the school and the principal were made aware of the message being amplified over the social media platform. School officials quickly put the school on lockdown and multiple officers responded to investigate the situation.

The officers quickly determined the message was not credible and the students were not in any danger. It was decided that the building would be evacuated room by room by officers to ensure the safety of all students and staff.

The building was cleared and officers began leaving the area around 4:40 p.m.

We are still investigating the origins of the message, but don’t believe there is any threat to the school.

This incident was not connected to yesterday’s events or the arrest of Samuel Osenga in any way.

We would like to thank USD 383 for their continued assistance and cooperation in keeping our children safe.

We will continue to respond to any threats at any of our schools as the safety of our community’s children is and will remain a top priority.