KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – The Knox County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a student allegedly made a bomb threat at Powell Middle School on Tuesday afternoon, prompting a precautionary evacuation of the campus.
According to KCSO Public Information Officer Justin Pratt, deputies responded after receiving reports that a juvenile claimed to have placed a pipe bomb inside the school.
“According to preliminary information, a juvenile allegedly made a statement claiming to have placed a pipe bomb inside the school,” Pratt said.
Out of an abundance of caution, school officials evacuated students and staff while law enforcement began investigating the threat.
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad was called to the scene to conduct a thorough search and assess the situation. Authorities worked to ensure the campus was safe before allowing any return to normal operations.
Pratt said that as of Tuesday afternoon, investigators had not located any explosive device.
“No explosive has been found,” Pratt said.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and are interviewing the student believed to be responsible for the alleged threat.
No injuries were reported, and officials have not released additional information about potential charges.
The investigation remains ongoing.
