09/05/2026
Joint task force
**OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE**
El Centro Police Department Investigates Reported School-Related Threat
On September 4, 2026, the El Centro Police Department received information from the San Diego and Imperial County Joint Terrorism Task Force regarding reported threats involving Central Union High School. ECPD personnel immediately began working with school officials and law enforcement partners to assess the circumstances and ensure the safety of students, staff, and the surrounding community.
ECD’s School Resource Officer, detectives, and agents from the FBl’s Imperial County Field Office worked collaboratively with school officials to identify the student believed to be responsible for the threats. During the investigation, a juvenile was taken into custody in connection with the reported threats.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Because the individual involved is a juvenile, and to protect the integrity of the investigation, no additional identifying information will be released at this time.
Based on the information gathered, investigators believe this was an isolated incident, and there is currently no indication of any additional or ongoing threat to the school or the community.
The El Centro Police Department would like to thank its school administrators and staff, the San Diego and Imperial County Joint Terrorism Task Force, and the FBl’s Imperial County Field Office for their coordinated efforts and assistance throughout this investigation.
We also appreciate those who promptly shared their concerns with the appropriate officials. Reports involving the safety of our schools are taken seriously, and the cooperation of our community plays an important role in helping us maintain a safe environment for our students and families.
Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Karla Valle at (760)
352-2111.