Pius XI Catholic High School addresses second threat of violence

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Pius XI Catholic High School responded to a second threat made against the school within two weeks, according to a statement issued to school parents and guardians by Principal Ryan Krienke.

The most recent threat, said to have been reported by a student on Thursday, Oct. 17, was found in a boys' bathroom and claimed a bomb would be detonated on Monday, Oct. 21. A vulgar threat against a staff member’s family was also reportedly included in the message.

Krienke communicated the situation to parents and guardians on Friday, Oct. 18, stating that the school immediately contacted the Milwaukee Police Department following the report.

"MPD has deemed this threat to not be credible," Krienke wrote, confirming that classes would continue as scheduled on both Friday and Monday. The school administration also decided not to implement additional security measures or backpack searches, according to the message.

In a separate statement to CBS 58 on Friday, Pius XI officials confirmed that the school launched an internal investigation alongside MPD’s response.

The school emphasized that while there has been a nationwide increase in false threats of violence, "the safety and well-being of all Pius XI students and staff is and will continue to be our number one important priority."

Krienke reiterated the school’s zero-tolerance stance on such threats in his Friday statement to parents, noting that the incident remains under investigation. He stated that any student found responsible could face expulsion. The school encouraged students with information to come forward confidentially.

"We are disgusted and disheartened by this behavior," Krienke added.