HPD and HSD respond to rumors of violence

By Terry Murry on Wednesday, September 11th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

HERMISTON – The Hermiston School District was made aware of potential threats of violence over the weekend that were originating from outside the district. Superintendent Tricia Mooney said the district immediately alerted the Hermiston Police Department.

“The safety of HSD students and staff is our top priority,” Mooney wrote in a statement on social media. “Please be assured that all reports are taken seriously.”

Hermiston Police Chief Jason Edmiston said that the rumors were traced to the city of Umatilla. He said it’s vital that the Hermiston School District is a side-by-side partner with law enforcement.

“Any time an organization fails, it is often communications or a lack thereof that is the leading cause for that failure,” he stated. “This is why we put so much focus on communicating with the Hermiston School District.”

He added that both the district and his department want “what is best for those each of us are blessed to serve.”

Edmiston said the department had no direct nexus from the rumors to the school district.

“We did proper due diligence to communicate to and with the appropriate entities in Umatilla,” he said.