At around 11:15 a.m. on March 19, 2025, the Washington County Sheriff's Office requested assistance from the Office of the State Fire Marshal Bomb Squad after a suspicious device was found in a student's backpack. The school was immediately evacuated, and bomb technicians arrived on the scene within 20 minutes. Upon inspection, the device was determined to be a hoax. Explosive detection canines from the OSFM and the Maryland State Police also swept the school, and no additional devices were found.
Two students were identified as suspects and taken to the Maryland State Police Hagerstown Barrack for questioning. After consulting with their parents and legal representatives, the students were released into their parents' custody.
Following a detailed investigation, charges were filed against the students, including false representation of a destructive device, disturbing school operations, and making a false statement to a police officer. These charges are in addition to potential administrative actions by Washington County Public Schools.
The investigation was conducted with assistance from the Washington County Sheriff's Office and the Boonsboro Police Department.