San Marino Schools Resume Normal Operations After Threat, Evacuation

Huntington Middle School in San Marino (Photo – SMUSD)

San Marino Unified School District officials confirmed that Huntington Middle School has been cleared following a threatening phone call that prompted a lockdown and evacuation Friday afternoon.

By News Desk

According to Superintendent Dr. Linda de la Torre, the call was received at approximately 2:30 pm. School staff immediately contacted 911. Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with established safety protocols, lockdown procedures were initiated at Huntington Middle School, Valentine Elementary School, and the District Office.

Dr. de la Torre said district officials remained in direct communication with site administrators to ensure emergency procedures were properly followed. After law enforcement arrived and conducted an initial assessment, officials determined that students should be evacuated and dismissed for the remainder of the day.

The San Marino Police Department later conducted a thorough sweep of Huntington’s campus and issued an all-clear, confirming the safety of students and staff.

District officials emphasized that communication with families was closely managed throughout the incident, with updates sent via ParentSquare as information became available. They noted that during fast-moving situations, details can evolve rapidly and sometimes include conflicting accounts. The district stated that it refrained from sharing unverified or incomplete information to ensure accuracy and avoid compromising student safety or law enforcement efforts.

An active police investigation remains underway. District officials said they are not permitted to release specific details about the content of the call, the identity of any individual involved, or investigative leads, citing the need to protect the integrity of the investigation and prevent misinformation.

Huntington Middle School reopened Saturday at 7:30 am to allow students to retrieve belongings left behind during the lockdown and evacuation. Principal Hazlett was scheduled to be on site to assist families.

Recognizing the emotional toll such incidents can have, the district announced that counseling services will be available for students who need support.

“We thank our law enforcement partners and administration for their swift response and, most importantly, for helping ensure the safety of all our students and staff,” Dr. de la Torre said in a message to parents and guardians. “The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priorities.”