UTICA, NY — A bomb threat prompted the evacuation of John F. Kennedy Middle School on April 2, 2026.
Police received a call at approximately 9:15 a.m. in which the caller stated that several bombs were placed around the school and would detonate at a particular time.
The Utica City School District evacuated students and staff to Redeemer Church on Herkimer Road.
The Utica Police Department and federal and local partners arrived at the school and took control of the incident.
Police conducted an interior sweep to ensure no additional people were inside.
Specialized K-9 explosive detection teams then conducted a sweep of the building and grounds.
Police determined that there were no explosives on the premises and no immediate threat to the building or students was present.
School district officials and police coordinated the return of students to the school via bus.
The educational day proceeded as normal once students returned to the school.
The Utica Police Department Criminal Investigations Division, along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, has commenced an investigation into the call and its origins.
