Bomb threat prompts evacuation at Fort Kent schools

FORT KENT, Maine (WABI) - Authorities have released additional details following Tuesday morning’s evacuation of Fort Kent Community High School and Valley Rivers Middle School after a bomb threat.

According to a press release from Fort Kent Police Chief Michael DeLena, at approximately 9:30 a.m. on February 24, 2026, school administration contacted police after a handwritten note was discovered in a bathroom stating there was a bomb inside the school.

Fort Kent Police arrived on scene at 9:35 a.m., along with Fort Kent Fire and Rescue. Following agency protocol, officials made the decision to evacuate the building. Students and staff were transported to a designated safe zone in Fort Kent while authorities conducted a thorough search.

Additional assistance was provided by the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office and Maine State Police. The Maine State Police Bomb Team was contacted and consulted as part of the response.

Police said law enforcement officers, along with a faculty member and maintenance staff, searched every part of the building and reported anything suspicious or out of the ordinary. After determining the school was safe, all responding agencies cleared the scene.

Classes at Fort Kent Community High School and Valley Rivers Middle School were dismissed for the remainder of the day. Because the threat was specific to that campus, Fort Kent Elementary School was not evacuated but operated under a soft lockdown.

In a separate letter to families, Superintendent Benjamin Sirois said the evacuation followed safety protocols and consultation with local police. He confirmed the building has been cleared for reentry and that school will resume Wednesday, February 24, 2026.

Chief DeLena said the department takes all threats seriously and considers them credible until determined otherwise. He also commended school staff for their quick and orderly response.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Fort Kent Police Department at 207-834-5678.