Newtown First Selectman Pat Llodra has issued a statement in response to the bomb scare called in to Sandy Hook Elementary School this morning:

“Earlier today a bomb scare was received at Sandy Hook School. The scare was classified as a "no threat-low threat" event, but in an abundance of caution, Superintendent Erardi determined that dismissal of students at 12 noon is the best course of action. All students and staff are safe.  Monroe Police are on site, as are Newtown Police. The building and grounds will be thoroughly searched and cleared of any concern. Updated information will be shared via school district communication systems as well as via the town’s ‘blast’ system. 

“In response to questions about process in events that impact Sandy Hook School, it is the Monroe Police who are the first responders, with assistance and back-up provided by Newtown Police. There is a close working relationship between the two departments and an effective sharing of information.  In this case, the Newtown Police were notified immediately and were on site at the school soon thereafter.

“Please be assured that students and staff are safe and that all reasonable and appropriate precautions are being taken.”

As was reported earlier, children and faculty of Sandy Hook Elementary School were evacuated this morning to Jockey Hollow School, also on the school campus on Fan Hill Road in Monroe, after the threat was received.