Winnipeg Police Investigate Multiple School Threats
Series of Threats Causes Citywide Alarm
Police in Winnipeg have responded to a troubling wave of threats targeting city schools over the past few weeks. Between February 3 and February 19, 2026, officers received 11 separate reports of alleged threats directed at students and staff. Although authorities have concluded that none of the threats were credible, they stress every report was treated seriously to protect school communities.
Staff Sgt. Shaun Venn described the trend as “deeply concerning.” Police have said that even false or prank threats can strain emergency resources and cause stress among families, teachers and students.
Arrests Made in Connection to Some Threats
Police have laid charges in three incidents linked to the wave of threats. A 30‑year‑old woman from Toronto faces two counts of uttering threats after a call about a school on Hastings Boulevard. Officers arrested her, and she was released on an undertaking.
Two local youths, ages 13 and 16, also face charges. The 13‑year‑old was charged in relation to a threat at a school on Flora Avenue. The 16‑year‑old faces three counts tied to threats at a Scotia Street school. Both youths were released on a promise to appear in court.
In a separate case, a 10‑year‑old was referred to the Turnabout program, which supports young people under 12 who have had run‑ins with the law. Several other schools remain under investigation with no charges yet laid.
Impact on Schools and Families
Several schools implemented precautionary measures after receiving threats. In some cases, classes were canceled or facilities locked down while police assessed the situation. School divisions said they prioritized safety while trying to minimize disruptions to learning.
Police emphasized that even non‑credible threats can have major impacts. Staff Sgt. Venn said these incidents divert emergency resources and can be traumatic for people who witness large police responses at schools. He stressed that threats of harm are serious criminal offences with lasting legal consequences for those responsible.
Safety Messaging and Community Response
Winnipeg police urged families and students to report any threat information and take communications seriously. Officers reminded the public that circulating unverified threat posts online can increase fear and confusion.
Officials also highlighted the importance of reporting potential threats through proper channels rather than sharing them on social media. They stressed that schools and police work together to assess risks and keep students safe.
