RCMP investigate 2nd threat against Vanderhoof, B.C., school district employees

RCMP are once again investigating threats made toward school district employees in Vanderhoof, B.C.

Police say they launched an investigation in the community of approximately 4,000 people, located about 80 kilometres west of Prince George, after several suspicious envelopes were flagged at the local post office on Feb. 28.

The envelopes, which contained a substance that was later found to be non-toxic, also contained "threatening statements targeting specific school district employees," RCMP said, adding that the statements referred to diversity and inclusion guidelines.

"The threats within the suspicious packages are being treated seriously," said RCMP Cpl. Madonna Saunderson in a release.

"Specific employees being targeted for following a provincial policy that promotes a culture of inclusion and safety for all children is unconscionable."

Last November, RCMP said they were investigating after "disturbing letters" were sent to multiple teachers and staff at Evelyn Dickson Elementary.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the board of education for School District 91 condemned "ongoing threats and acts of intimidation" targeting Evelyn Dickson staff and employees.

Board chair Dave Christie said in the statement that the threats are "driven by a false sense of superiority and have no place in this town or any other part of society."

He said the school was staying open with enhanced security measures in place.

Vanderhoof Mayor Kevin Moutray said it was a "frustrating situation" and called on anyone with information to come forward to police.

"It just has no place," he said in an interview with CBC News.

In a release to the community, he called the letters and their contents "a black eye on Vanderhoof," which he described as a "friendly, welcoming and inclusive community." 

"We cannot and will not let the actions of a few people change the culture of our community — kindness must triumph over hatred."