Whiteville detectives interviewing juvenile linked to ‘clown purge’ threats

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) –  Detectives with the Whiteville Police Department are interviewing a juvenile they believe is linked to threats made on social media.

Yesterday, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office and Columbus County School District said they were investigating online threats about a purge of the schools.

A screenshot of an Instagram post was being shared on Facebook.  The screenshot is from the private group clownsofwhiteville.  The post says the group is purging on the 14th and that those who think they are joking will find out.

Whiteville City Spokesperson Hal Lowder says detectives followed up on some leads and computer forensics that linked back to the juvenile.  Lowder says it is still an active investigation and more people might be involved.