ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) – A joint investigation is underway after credible threats surfaced on social media targeting multiple Rapides Parish high schools, prompting officials to cancel Peabody Magnet High School’s homecoming parade Saturday morning out of an abundance of caution.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO), Alexandria Police Department, and Pineville Police Department are actively investigating threats directed at Peabody, Alexandria High School, and Pineville High School. Authorities said they are working closely with the Rapides Parish School Board and have increased security around campuses.

“We take all threats to our schools and students seriously,” RPSO said in a statement. “This is an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement.”

Parade called off over “credible, immediate” threats

City officials announced the Peabody homecoming parade was canceled shortly before it was scheduled to begin, citing verified intelligence indicating “credible and immediate threats” to public safety.

According to the city’s statement, the threats specifically targeted parade-goers, Peabody students, and alumni, and originated from individuals outside Rapides Parish. Intelligence gathered by law enforcement indicated that potential attackers intended to retaliate for a separate incident earlier in the day and may have been armed with long guns.

“The decision was difficult but necessary,” city officials said. “We believe this action was essential to protect our citizens from harm and likely saved lives.”

Officials noted that a parade, as a large and open event, presents significant security challenges and potential vulnerabilities. “Law enforcement has a strained ability to prevent dangers to parade-goers, where large amounts of people are gathered and unable to defend themselves, escape, or even evade threats,” the statement read.

The city also reported disruptions to businesses and emergency services in Alexandria overnight, allegedly by individuals tied to the threats. Law enforcement officials vowed to increase patrols around businesses and establishments selling alcohol throughout the weekend.

Presumed link to early-morning Pineville shooting

The threats on Peabody’s celebration followed a shooting incident hours earlier at an establishment in the 7500 block of U.S. Highway 71 South in Pineville. Deputies responded around 4 a.m. after receiving multiple reports of gunfire.

Investigators determined that several people had been shot and were transported to local hospitals by private vehicles. Four victims have been identified, though their conditions were not immediately released.

Sheriff’s detectives and crime scene investigators remain on scene, and authorities believe the shooting may be connected to the threats later directed at Peabody and other schools.

Anyone with information about the threats or the shooting is urged to contact the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office at (318) 473-6700, Alexandria Police Department at (318) 441-6442, Pineville Police Department at (318) 442-6603, or Crime Stoppers at (318) 443-7867.