October 9, 2026 – Merced Police Department officials report that on October 8, 2026, at approximately 1:00 p.m., the Merced Police Department was notified of a bomb threat involving Merced High School.

Officers immediately responded and placed the school on lockdown. Officers conducted an initial search of the school and determined there was no immediate danger. Students and staff were then safely evacuated from campus while officers continued a thorough search of the school grounds. No suspicious items were located.

We would like to thank all the officers who assisted in keeping our community safe, with a special Thank You to the Fresno County K-9 Unit for their assistance and support. We also extend our gratitude to the Merced County Sheriff's Office for handling Merced PD calls for service while the situation was being resolved.

We would also like to recognize the parents, staff, and students for their patience, support, and cooperation during this stressful time. Their cooperation helped ensure students were safely reunited with their families in a timely manner.

This incident remains under investigation.

Source: Merced Police Department