MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Police are continuing their investigation into a threatening message, painted in white, discovered outside Pius XI Catholic High School.
Surveillance footage captured the suspect wearing a red mask, carrying a black backpack and riding a bike. The graffiti threat appeared the day before Election Day, prompting Pius to switch to virtual classes temporarily.
Now, Pius XI Catholic High School is offering a cash reward for any information leading to the suspect’s identification. New security measures have also been implemented as students return to in-person classes on Tuesday.
Pius High School Principal Ryan Krienke walked us around campus, explaining new entry procedures. Students will enter the school through the Field House, where three staff members and an armed security guard will greet them.
“The familiar protocol requires students to turn off and put away their cell phones. The new addition involves passing through metal detectors provided by a community partner,” said Ryan Krienke, Principal, Pius XI Catholic High School.
If the metal detector goes off, students receive a secondary screening with a handheld metal detection wand. Female students will be checked by female guards.
Principal Krienke acknowledges while the process may feel overwhelming, safety remains the highest priority.
“This is the third threat incident, and this one was larger and more direct. We decided to close the school temporarily to allow the police investigation to continue,” said Krienke.
The school has also increased the number of security guards patrolling inside and around the building.
“We have students who have children of their own here, and I have kids too. Every decision was made in the students’ best interest,” said Krienke.
After a series of threats, leaders at Pius Catholic High School are taking no chances, saying the safety and security of the entire school community is always top priority.