‘Al-Qaeda’ Letters Sent to Boston Schools: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know

There are preliminary reports that schools in the Boston area have received “threatening letters”, that reference “al-Qaeda”.

This is a breaking story so please stay tuned for updates.

Here’s what we know so far…

1. The letter’s include references to “al-Qaeda.”

The letters reported made references to al-Qaeda, Nazis and the FBI.

2. Security has been stepped up around schools in the city.

According to the Boston Globe, Boston school officials sent a recorded message to parents and students in automated telephone calls to give an update on the situation. The message said:

Hello, this is an important call from the Boston Public Schools. We are calling to let you know that today, several schools received the same suspicious letter in the mail. We immediately contacted Boston Police, who are working closely with every school.

They have assured us that these letters, while suspicious, do not constitute a threat to student safety. We have directed all schools to be on the lookout for these letters, and if we receive them, to set them aside so the police can investigate.

We want you to know that we take suspicious packages and letters very seriously and are working closely with the Boston Police — who assure us these letters do not represent a credible threat and that our schools and classrooms are safe. You may see additional police around our schools while they continue to look into this matter, and we have already planned to have extra security at our graduation ceremonies.

It’s important to always remain vigilant and keep safety as our top priority. If you have questions, please feel free to speak with your school leader. Thank you.

3. The letters have all been postmarked as being from Texas.

Now all letters postmarked from Texas sent to Boston schools are being held for the police to investigate.

4. It is not a “credible threat,” according to Boston police.

Boston city agencies said in a joint statement:

While we remain vigilant and are taking appropriate action, we reiterate there is no credible physical threat and the letters did not contain any substances.

5. There is no reported connection between these letters and those that contained ricin that were sent to President Obama and Mayor Bloomberg.