Carolina Forest High School Hoax Triggers Police Response, Parents Concerned

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) – A hoax call regarding an alleged threat at Carolina Forest High School prompted an extensive police response on Wednesday morning, causing concern among parents about the school’s emergency protocols.

According to Horry County Schools, the incident began when the school resource officer received a notification of a possible threat inside a bathroom. In response, the school was placed on a “hold” protocol for approximately 25 minutes while authorities and school administration conducted their investigation.

Horry County Police Department confirmed that no credible threat was found, stating, “The call has been deemed a hoax, and there is no threat to Carolina Forest High School.” Superintendent Lisa Bourcier reassured parents, stating that all students and staff were safe and the school day continued without further disruptions.

Parents took to social media to express their frustrations, particularly regarding a new cell phone policy implemented in January 2025, which restricts students from using their phones during school hours. “It has got to be a different solution,” said Lori Stuart, a parent of two school-age children. She emphasized the need for effective communication during emergencies, citing the anxiety caused by the inability to contact students during the hoax.

Another parent, Sheryl Livoti, expressed her distress when she heard sirens outside the school. “I was trying to reach my daughter; she had her phone on Do Not Disturb. It was nerve-wracking not knowing what was happening,” Livoti explained. Students are not allowed to use their phones unless authorized by school administration during emergencies, which added to parents’ concerns during the hoax.

School officials clarified that the school was not in a lockdown but rather under a “hold” standard response, where all students remained in classrooms until the situation was resolved. Principal Gaye Driggers later communicated with parents via email, stating, “The school went into a ‘Hold’ emergency protocol for approximately 25 minutes while the alleged matter was investigated…There is no threat to our school.”

Concerns about the new policy have been amplified by recent hoaxes, with some parents requesting improved communication strategies during such incidents. Livoti noted, “There seems to be a lot of these hoax call-ins, and as a parent, you want more transparency to alleviate the anxiety.”

Horry County School officials reiterated their commitment to student safety, commending staff and law enforcement for their prompt response and adherence to safety protocols.