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North Branch Schools Closed Amid Bomb Threats

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/2 .. rth-branch-schools-closed-amid-bomb-threats.html
  Published in House and Home on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 20:52 GMT by fox13now
      Locales: Minnesota, UNITED STATES

NORTH BRANCH, MINNESOTA - February 27th, 2026 - The North Branch Area School District remains closed for a third consecutive day as authorities investigate a series of bomb threats targeting multiple schools within the district. The incidents, which began on Wednesday, have plunged the community into a renewed state of anxiety, stirring up painful memories of the May 2024 shooting at North Branch High School that claimed the life of student Liam Conejo-Ramos and deeply impacted the entire area.

The district announced the closures via its website and social media channels, emphasizing the safety of students and staff as the paramount concern. "We are aware of the recent threats made against our schools," the statement reads. "Our highest priority is the safety of our students and staff. We are working closely with law enforcement to investigate these threats and provide support to our community." As of this morning, the FBI has joined local and state law enforcement in the investigation, bringing additional resources and expertise to the case.

While authorities are tight-lipped about the specifics of the threats - citing the ongoing nature of the investigation - they have indicated they believe the threats are deliberate acts of intimidation. This raises critical questions about the motivations behind the threats and whether they are directly linked to the previous tragedy, or represent a separate, though equally disturbing, incident. Local psychological experts are expressing concern about the potential for copycat behavior or the exploitation of the community's existing trauma.

Dr. Eleanor Vance, a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma response, spoke to reporters earlier today. "Communities that have experienced collective trauma are particularly vulnerable to these types of incidents," she explained. "The act of making a threat, even if it's ultimately proven to be a hoax, can reopen old wounds and create a climate of fear. It's crucial that authorities not only address the immediate security concerns but also provide ongoing mental health support to students, staff, and families."

The May 2024 shooting at North Branch High School remains a painful chapter in the community's history. Liam Conejo-Ramos, a promising student known for his involvement in the school's debate team and volunteer work, was tragically killed. The incident sparked widespread grief and prompted a series of town hall meetings focused on school safety and mental health resources. In the wake of the shooting, the district implemented several security upgrades, including enhanced access control measures and increased security personnel. However, these measures have seemingly been insufficient to deter the current threats.

Parents are understandably frustrated and anxious. Many have expressed concerns about the long-term psychological impact of these repeated disruptions on their children. A petition calling for a comprehensive review of school security protocols and increased mental health support for students has already garnered over 2,000 signatures.

"My daughter was really shaken up by the shooting last year," said Sarah Miller, a parent of a North Branch High School student. "She's already anxious about going to school, and now this... it's just awful. We need to know that everything is being done to keep our kids safe."

The economic impact of the school closures is also beginning to be felt. Many parents have had to take time off work to care for their children, and local businesses are reporting a decrease in foot traffic. The district is working to provide resources for families in need, including meal distribution and childcare assistance.

Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about the threats to come forward. A dedicated tip line has been established, and authorities are offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working tirelessly to identify the source of the threats and bring those responsible to justice. The community of North Branch holds its breath, hoping for a swift resolution and a return to normalcy, while simultaneously bracing itself for the long road to healing.