On the morning of Jan. 29, 2025, Georgetown High School was evacuated after a bomb threat was reported to the Georgetown Police Department. The threat, made via telephone, was received by the Communications Division at approximately 7:08 a.m. A male caller claimed to have placed explosive devices at the school, located at 2211 N. Austin Ave. in Georgetown.
The Georgetown Police Department responded immediately, with the first units arriving on the scene at 7:17 a.m. Georgetown ISD administration worked closely with law enforcement to make the decision to evacuate the school for the safety of students and staff. The students were moved to a secure, cleared location near the school while authorities investigated.
After the evacuation, a thorough search of the school was conducted by Georgetown Police and GISD staff. Three items were identified as suspicious during the search. These items were cleared by bomb detection canines from the Cedar Park Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
One of the items was deemed unusual enough that, out of an abundance of caution, the Austin Police Department Bomb Squad was called to further evaluate it. After their assessment, it was determined that the item was not an explosive device, but rather part of a student’s robotics project.
The Georgetown Police Department clarified that no explosives were located at the school. There had been misinformation circulating that explosives had been found, but this was not the case. The police expressed appreciation for the support from partner agencies, including the Cedar Park Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Austin Police Department, in ensuring the safety of the community.
The Georgetown Police Department, alongside the Texas Rangers, continues to investigate the source of the bomb threat. A 16-year-old juvenile male, who lives in Georgia, has admitted to making the threat. Authorities are working with Georgia officials and local prosecutors to file charges. The individual is expected to face a third-degree felony charge for Terroristic Threat.
Georgetown Police Chief and other officials emphasized the seriousness with which threats of this nature are treated and expressed gratitude for the cooperation of the community throughout the incident. The department also thanked all partner agencies for their swift and thorough response to the situation.
As the investigation continues, Georgetown residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels for updates.
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