Media Release: https://aptg.co/8yNZ5d
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 7, 2026
Today, Dwight Morrow High School experienced a swatting incident that prompted an immediate response from law enforcement and school personnel. While this was ultimately determined to be a false report, we recognize that incidents of this nature are unsettling for our students, staff, families, and the broader Englewood community.
At approximately 7:40 a.m., the Englewood Police Department received a threat involving the high school. Mr. Barry Harris, Director of Security for the Englewood Public School District, immediately notified Superintendent Dr. Marnie Hazelton as the situation unfolded. Dr. Hazelton promptly informed the Board of Education and will continue to keep the school community informed as additional information becomes available.
Officers responded immediately to the campus. The initial law enforcement response focused on the North Building before shifting to the South Building based on updated information received during the investigation. As a precaution, students and staff were directed to shelter in place until officers arrived and secured the building. They were then safely evacuated to the Janis E. Dismus Middle School gymnasium.
At the time of this release, law enforcement continues to conduct a comprehensive sweep of the Dwight Morrow High School campus. Incoming students attending Liberty School remained under the supervision of law enforcement officers until the area was cleared and deemed safe.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Englewood Police Department for its swift response, professionalism, and partnership throughout this incident. I also extend my appreciation to all assisting law enforcement agencies whose coordinated efforts ensured that our campus was thoroughly secured and that established safety protocols were followed.
The safety and security of our students and staff remain our highest priority. We are grateful that our emergency response procedures, combined with the decisive actions of law enforcement, enabled us to respond quickly and effectively.
I also want to recognize our Director of Security, Mr. Barry Harris, along with the administrators, teachers, support staff, and first responders whose professionalism, calm leadership, and dedication helped ensure the safety of our students throughout today's response.
We understand the concern this incident has caused for our families, and we appreciate their patience, cooperation, and trust as we worked through this situation. The Englewood Public School District will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to safeguard our schools and provide updates as appropriate.
On behalf of the Englewood Public School District, thank you to our students, staff, families, and community for your continued support as we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing a safe, secure, and supportive environment where teaching and learning can thrive.
Carpe diem,
Dr. Marnie Hazelton
Superintendent of Schools
Englewood Public School District