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Minnesota Schools Closed After Bomb Threats Linked to Past Police Case

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. ter-bomb-threats-linked-to-past-police-case.html
  Published in House and Home on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 15:14 GMT by WKBW
      Locales: Minnesota, UNITED STATES

Escalating Threats Target Minnesota Schools: Echoes of Liam Conejo-Ramos Case Fuel Concerns

South Washington County, Minnesota - February 6th, 2026 - Schools across the South Washington County School District remain closed today, Friday, February 6th, 2026, following a series of credible bomb threats that began earlier this week. Authorities are investigating a clear connection between the threats and the district where Liam Conejo-Ramos, a 16-year-old who died following a police pursuit in November 2023, previously lived. The situation has ignited anxieties within the community and prompted a significant law enforcement response.

The initial threats surfaced on Tuesday, February 3rd, prompting the district to immediately close all schools in Cottage Grove, Newport, St. Paul Park, and South St. Paul "out of an abundance of caution," according to a district statement. Police Chief Jeff Holland confirmed during a press conference that the threats were originating from various online platforms, but details regarding the specific platforms and the nature of the threats remain limited to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

"We are working diligently to identify and hold accountable those responsible for these threats," Chief Holland stated. "The safety of our students, staff, and community is our top priority. We have a significant police presence at all school buildings to provide reassurance and ensure a secure environment."

The link to the Liam Conejo-Ramos case is proving to be a central focus of the investigation. Ramos' death, which occurred after a vehicle pursuit initiated by police, sparked protests and accusations of excessive force. While the official investigation into the incident concluded with findings that officers followed protocol, the case remains a sensitive topic within the community and has fueled ongoing debate about policing practices and racial justice. Investigators believe individuals connected to activist groups or those sympathetic to the Ramos family may be responsible for the threats, using them as a form of protest or to inflict emotional distress on the district and law enforcement.

This is not simply a case of anonymous online harassment; the specificity of the threats, coupled with the direct connection to the Ramos case, suggests a deliberate attempt to exploit a pre-existing community trauma. Experts in crisis communication and school safety are warning that such incidents can have long-lasting psychological effects on students, staff, and parents. The closures have disrupted education for over 17,000 students and caused considerable hardship for working families who rely on schools for childcare.

"The timing is particularly concerning," explains Dr. Emily Carter, a school psychologist specializing in trauma-informed care. "Anniversaries of tragic events, even if it's not a precise anniversary, can often trigger heightened emotions and inspire action, sometimes negative action. The proximity to the anniversary of Mr. Ramos' death and the recent visibility of related social media posts likely contributed to the escalation of these threats."

The FBI has been brought in to assist with the investigation, providing additional resources and expertise in cybercrime and threat assessment. Investigators are meticulously analyzing online activity, tracing IP addresses, and examining social media content for clues. They are also working to determine if the threats are connected to any broader organized efforts to disrupt schools or incite violence.

School district officials are collaborating closely with law enforcement and mental health professionals to develop a plan for reopening schools. This plan includes enhanced security measures, increased counseling services for students and staff, and community forums to address concerns and foster dialogue. The district has also established a dedicated hotline for parents and community members to report any suspicious activity or information related to the threats.

The situation in South Washington County underscores the growing trend of school-based threats and the complex challenges facing educators and law enforcement in a digital age. It highlights the importance of proactive threat assessment, strong community partnerships, and comprehensive mental health support for students and staff. The lingering pain surrounding the Liam Conejo-Ramos case continues to cast a shadow over the community, and resolving this current crisis will require a sensitive and collaborative approach to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.