By Keith O’donnell

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Yesterday, the Montcalm County Sheriff’s Office responded to multiple bomb threats targeting Tri County High School and several branches of Community First Federal Credit Union, raising alarms across the community. According to a news release posted on social media by Sheriff Mike Williams, all threats were eventually deemed non-credible following thorough investigations by law enforcement, as reported by MLive.

Detailed reports from the FOX17 elaborated that after the initial threats to the credit union were reported, responses were swift the buildings were cleared indicating no immediate danger was present, and concurrently, a separate, second threat surfaced at Tri County High School which was also swiftly acted upon, placing the school on lockdown and drawing a swift and comprehensive reaction from authorities to ensure the protection of all on campus.

The Montcalm County Sheriff’s Office continues to probe the source of these threats, which they presume to be linked based on current evidence. In addition to local deputies, the response to the incidents was bolstered by support from Montcalm Central Dispatch, Michigan State Police, Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office, Lakeview Police Department, Montcalm County EMS, and various fire departments, who all worked in unison to resolve the situation.

Community First Federal Credit Union CEO, Timothy G. Rasmussen, communicated with patrons and the public during the incidents, stating, “Earlier today, we received a phone call containing a bomb threat. We immediately contacted local law enforcement, and police authorities are currently investigating the matter,” in a statement reported by WZZM13. Rasmussen expressed his gratitude towards law enforcement for their efficiency, while also acknowledging the disruption caused to the community and assuring continued cooperation with the ongoing investigation.

Meanwhile, the atmosphere at Tri County Area Schools was tense, with Superintendent Ryan Biller describing the situation as “unnerving”, he appreciated the efficacy of the threat assessment team and law enforcement’s swift resolve, which deemphasized the validity of the threat and minimized its impact on the educational environment, Biller told WZZM13.