Ingersoll public school evacuated after bomb threat

Oxford Provincial Police were assisted by the Ingersoll Fire Department to search and secure Laurie Hawkins Public School following the discovery of a written bomb threat. The school was cleared and students were back in class early in the afternoon. (Kyrah Smith photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

There was an increased police presence on April 2 at an elementary school in the Town of Ingersoll.

At approximately 9:30 a.m. on April 2, 2026, Officers from the Oxford OPP, along with Ingersoll Fire Services and Oxford County Paramedic Services, were called to Laurie Hawkins Public School at 9:30 a.m. for a reported bomb threat.

All students and staff were safely evacuated from the school and relocated to an alternate location. Police conducted an extensive search of the school and property without incident. No threat was detected.

Members of the Oxford OPP are actively conducting an ongoing investigation and are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact Oxford OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

The Thames Valley District School Board and Principal Dan Murrell released a statement to parents.

“We are writing to you that, based on the advice of police, all students have been temporarily relocated…to Ingersoll District Collegiate Institute (IDCI) after a written bomb threat was discovered at the school.”

It went on to say the students were safe, supervised and remained with their teachers.

“There is no need for families to pick up their children from IDCI. The expectation is that students will return to Laurie Hawkins Public School before the end of the instructional day,” it added.

A second communication from the board and Murrell said students were being allowed back in the school around 12:30 p.m.

“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the police, fire and EMS personnel for their prompt response and careful investigation, as well as to our families for their cooperation and understanding. We also appreciate the support of IDCI staff and students in accommodating our students during this time.”

Police say no charges have been laid at this time.