CHINA GROVE — The first day of school at J.C. Carson High did not go as planned for students anticipating a new year.
The nearby Macy’s Distribution Center was the subject of an overnight bomb threat, which ultimately prompted Rowan-Salisbury Schools officials to close Carson for the day.
“Emergency responders are actively investigating a reported bomb threat at the Macy’s Distribution Center in China Grove,” noted the release from Rowan County Emergency Services that went out early Wednesday. “Multiple bomb squad and explosive detection K-9 teams from regional partner agencies are assisting on scene, including resources from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Guilford County, Piedmont Triad, Cabarrus County, Rowan County, and other supporting agencies.”
One of those K-9s is a Belgian Malinois named Macy, who is part of the China Grove Police Department. The dog was actually paid for and gifted to the town by the national retailer.
“As a precaution, emergency notification messages are being distributed to residents, businesses, and facilities within a one-half mile radius of the incident location,” noted the Emergency Services release.“Individuals within this area are encouraged to remain alert, monitor official communications, and be prepared to follow instructions from emergency personnel should conditions change.”
Carson High School is within that range.
“Emergency management and public safety officials are actively coordinating with the Rowan-Salisbury School System regarding Carson High School and will continue working closely with school administrators to ensure the safety of students, staff, and the community,” Emergency Services’ release said.
Families, students and staff received a message from the school district on Wednesday in relation to the incident unfolding at Macy’s: “Good morning Carson students, staff, and families. Out of an abundance of caution, we will be closing the campus of Jesse C. Carson High School for today, Wednesday, August 12. The campus will be closed for all students and staff, including all after-school activities.
“We know today is supposed to be an exciting start to a new school year. We are disappointed that we will not get to see you today, but we look forward to starting fresh tomorrow morning. Thank you and have a good last day of summer!”
At 9:45 a.m., Emergency Services issued a final update.
“Emergency responders have completed operations at the Macy’s Distribution Center in China Grove following the reported bomb threat earlier today,” the release said. “After an extensive and methodical investigation by specialized bomb squad personnel and Explosive Detection K-9 teams, responders have cleared the scene, and the incident is considered concluded. There is no ongoing threat to the community, and no further protective actions are necessary.
“The precautionary notifications previously issued for residents, businesses, and facilities within the 1/2-mile area are no longer in effect.
“We sincerely appreciate the patience and cooperation of our community throughout this extended response. We also thank the numerous local and regional public safety agencies that provided personnel, specialized resources, and support throughout the investigation.”
The Salisbury Post is currently awaiting information and comment from Macy’s.
