Preston High School on Schurz Avenue in the Bronx was among several schools that received threats from a 'creepy clown' Facebook and Instagram account, according to police.
The accounts called 'Clownjohn Jacobs' and 'NYC Clown Gang' made threats to about 20 tristate schools including JFK, Truman and Clinton high schools in the Bronx. The threat, according to officials included the message "we are coming."
The ominous messages come as thousands of clown-related threats have been reported across the U.S. over the past few months. A picture of a teen wearing a clown mask appearing to hold a rifle surfaced on a New Jersey social media account, and a school on Long Island was placed on lockdown after a report of someone dressed as a clown.
The NYPD says the increase in creepy clown sightings is dangerous, and it causes panic and alarm. They are asking that no one take part in adding to the hysteria. The NYPD says no credible threat has been uncovered related to the clown hype.
The Department of Education commented by saying "The NYPD was immediately notified and determined the threats were not credible. We will continue working closely with the NYPD to ensure the safety and security of all school buildings."
The school also released a statement in which it says, "Preston High School is committed to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for our students. This is a responsibility we take very seriously."