Rumors of Gun Threat at BHS Dance Unfounded

School and police officials say the gun threat that canceled the Barrington High School dance on Saturday was unsubstantiated. 

"Students who who reported the threat have been interviewed. No credible evidence of an actual weapon was found. Still, these stories are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly to keep everyone safe," an email from District 220 read. 

In light of the Newtown, Conn. tragedy, school officials did not want to take any chances for student safety and chose to cancel the student event. 

"We won’t risk student safety or the possibility a copycat assailant could try to inflict violence at one of our own schools. Some will say we are overreacting, but we have no reservations about being exceedingly cautious given the current atmosphere and our ongoing focus on protecting students," a letter from Superintendent Dr. Tom Leonard read. 

The dance has been rescheduled for Jan. 26. The event is hosted by the Youth Advisory Council of the Barrington Area Community Foundation to raise funds for local charities and non-profits. Tickets will be on sale soon, District 220 officials say.