Crime
Bomb Threat Reported at McCallum High School, Prompting Heavy Police Presence
AUSTIN, TX – A bomb threat at McCallum High School prompted a heavy police response on Wednesday afternoon, leading to precautionary measures on campus.
According to Austin Police, the school was placed on hold around 3:00 p.m. as officers arrived at the scene on Sunshine Drive to investigate the reported threat.
School officials confirmed that students remained inside their classrooms, with hallways cleared and instruction continuing as normal.
Due to the ongoing police investigation, dismissal was delayed, and authorities urged the public to avoid the area and report any suspicious activity to 911.
This incident follows an online threat earlier in the week, which also resulted in an increased police presence on campus.
In a letter to families, Principal Andy Baxa explained that school officials had received a social media threat directed at the campus.
However, the Austin ISD Police Department swiftly identified the source of the post and contacted the student’s family.
Following an investigation, law enforcement determined that there was no credible plan to carry out the threat.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Crime
36-year-old Emerald Pretty killed in Englewood shooting
CHICAGO, IL — A man was found shot to death Friday night on Chicago’s South Side, prompting a homicide investigation by Area One detectives, according to the Chicago Police Department.
Officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 900 block of West 63rd Parkway in the Englewood neighborhood at approximately 10:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a 36-year-old male victim suffering from gunshot wounds to the head and neck.
Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene, but the victim was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later identified him as Emerald Pretty, age 36.
According to preliminary information, a male suspect exited a white sedan, approached the victim, and opened fire before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle.
No arrests have been made at this time, and Area One detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Authorities have not released details on a possible motive or whether the incident may have been targeted.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Chicago Police Department’s Area One Bureau of Detectives or submit an anonymous tip through CPD’s tip line or Crime Stoppers.
