Increased Security Measures Continue After Frightening Threat Targets Niceville School

Parents arriving at Rocky Bayou Christian School on Thursday morning were met with a heightened police presence after school officials and the Niceville Police Department responded to a handwritten threat alleging a potential school shooting at one of the school’s campuses.

According to police, the investigation began on Wednesday, May 13, after a cleaning crew discovered a handwritten note on the school’s main Niceville campus. Investigators said the note claimed a shooting would occur on Thursday, May 14, and appeared to have been written by a child.

School leadership immediately placed both Niceville campuses on lockdown and notified parents about the threat and the ongoing investigation.

In coordination with school administrators, the Niceville Police Department implemented an extensive safety plan before students and staff arrived on campus Thursday morning. Officers conducted comprehensive searches of school property and maintained increased security throughout the day.

Those security measures included metal detector screenings for students, searches of backpacks and personal belongings, and continued police presence across campus buildings and classrooms.

Police said the enhanced measures will remain in place until further notice as investigators continue interviewing staff, students, and parents while reviewing surveillance footage and other evidence connected to the case.

Authorities emphasized that student and staff safety remains their top priority and asked parents to speak with their children if they may have information related to the threat.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Niceville Police Department at (850) 729-4030, Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at (850) 863-TIPS, or report tips through FortifyFL.