"On Saturday, we were alerted to a rumor of somebody possibly bringing a gun to school," said Gail Pinkser, William S. Hart Union High School District spokeswoman.
"We immediately began an investigation, working with school administrators to school districts and the school principal into the rumors on social media," said Joshua Dubin of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. "The investigation is still under way. At this time, it appears that there's no threat to the school."
School officials say two students got into a verbal fight on Friday during school hours. A message sent by the school's principal says an alleged threat was made on the social media site Twitter following the argument.
Investigators with the Santa Clarita juvenile team, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Crime Prevention Department and school officials are working together to investigate the posts and ensure students on campus are safe. Officials say they are taking these threats very seriously especially in light of recent school violence.
"I think emotionaly everybody has gone through concerns after Sandy Hook in realizing that yes this could happen everywhere," said Pinkser.
The school's principal sent out the following message to students and parents: "I want you to know that we are aware of social media posts indicating an alleged threat at West Ranch High School on Monday. I can assure you that the Sheriff's Department, West Ranch Administrators, and the William S. Hart Union High School District administration are investigating these unsubstantiated rumors."
Officials say they are in communication with the students involved in the posts. If any laws or school rules are found to be broken, the individuals involved will be disciplined both by the school and law enforcement.
Classes proceeded as usual Monday as the school remained open amid the threats.
