Although it was initially believed to be a threat against the school, Essexville-Hampton school officials have determined a rumor mill among parents of children within the district is to blame for the closure.

"The conclusion of this investigation does not support that anyone made a threat," said Essexville Department of Public Safety Director Daniel J. Hages. "Rather, rumors and hearsay prevailed until the facts were known."

Rumors about a threat were passed around through text messages from one concerned parent to another and that tipped off authorities, who began to investigate the claims.

Investigators spoke to the parent who initiated the texts and determined no malice was intended.

Classes within the district are expected to resume Monday, Jan. 7.

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