HRPS Responds to a Swatting Incident

By: Laura Steiner

Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) responded to a swatting incident in Milton earlier today.

Police received the call just before 11am this morning from a male stating he had shot and killed someone at an address in the Maple Avenue and Thompson area.   The incident pushed Chris Hadfield Public School and St. Peter Catholic Elementary School in a Hold& Secure.

Police resources including officers from the Tactical Rescue Unit, K9 Unit, and Criminal investigation unit attended the call.  An investigation determined the call to be unsubstantiated, and is believed to be a “swatting incident.”

‘Swatting’ is a term used to refer to a call to police where the caller makes a false report with the express purpose of having numerous police and emergency resources dispatched to an ongoing critical incident.  An investigation is ongoing to identify the person who initiated the call.  Anyone with information is asked to call Halton Regional Police Service at: 905-825-4777 or contact Crime Stoppers at: 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). Information can also be submitted through their website.