WARREN (WWJ) -- A Macomb County high school is closed on Monday after a false alarm shooting scare over the weekend.
The homecoming dance at Warren Mott High School in Warren was evacuated Saturday night, after an influx of 911 calls reporting shots fired.
Police responded to the school, on 12 Mile Rd. near Ryan, only to discover that there had been no shooting.
An investigation found that there was no threat to students at the dance, according to police, and that the sound students heard was just balloons popping.
Among parents reacting to the incident is Warren Councilman Jonathan Lafferty, who said his daughter was at the dance.
"It was just balloons popping, and they're conditioned to think, 'Oh my goodness, there are gunshots in school,' and they reacted as such. It's tragic," Lafferty said.
After the incident, students started a Change.org petition, asking for the day off on Monday to recover.
In an email to Mott families on Sunday, school officials agreed saying that the mental health of students is of great imporanace.
District officials also disclosed in that email that someone posted a threat to the school in response to the petition. An investigation into who made that threat is underway.
The letter reads as follows:
"Dear WCS Community,
"Today, some members of the Warren Mott High School community began a 'change.org petition' asking for school to be called off tomorrow in light of Saturday’s crisis response to the Homecoming Dance. In response to the petition, someone posted a threat to the school. We have been in contact with OK2SAY, as well as the Warren Police Department, who have begun their investigation.
"While we have no reason to believe this to be a credible threat, in light of the emotional toll recent events have taken on students and staff, Warren Mott High School will be closed on Monday, September 23. There will be no practices, games, or evening events.
"My hope is that everyone has some time to process recent events, to seek help if you need it, and to refocus on everything that makes Warren Mott an outstanding school. This time will also allow the Warren Police Department to continue their investigation.
"To the students of Warren Mott - as your superintendent, your physical safety is a top priority for me.
"Your mental health is just as important. Please take some time on Monday to rest, reflect, to talk with your loved ones about how you’re feeling, and to be a friend to your peers. When you return to school on Tuesday, we will have adults you can talk with and resources to help you.
"Parents - If you have questions, please contact your child’s school.
Sincerely,
John C. Bernia, Jr., Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools"