September 30, 2025

Peabody Magnet High School Cancels Homecoming Events

News Summary

Peabody Magnet High School abruptly canceled homecoming events due to credible security threats, leaving attendees devastated. Community members expressed their disappointment over the cancelled parade, tailgate, and football game as threats linked to local schools emerged. Authorities have increased security on campuses while investigations continue into the origins of these threats.

Alexandria – Homecoming events at Peabody Magnet High School have been abruptly canceled in response to credible security threats that surfaced over the weekend. The decision came just before the annual parade was set to begin, leaving attendees devastated after they had gathered for hours to participate in the festivities.

Community activist Tony Brown expressed his frustration over the cancellation, noting that people had traveled long distances from places like California and Canada to celebrate this traditional event. Alongside the parade, which typically brings together students and families, the anticipated tailgate party was also called off, along with the homecoming football game against Franklin, which has no rescheduled date as of now.

This year’s homecoming celebration, a cherished tradition that reinforces school spirit, faced a significant setback with these cancellations. The events included not only the parade and tailgate but also prize distributions and performances from the school’s band and cheerleading teams. With thorough preparations made by players, the homecoming court, and parents, the abrupt end to these events has understandably led to disappointment throughout the community.

On September 29, 2025, the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) reported the arrest of two juveniles in connection with social media threats targeting multiple local high schools, including Peabody Magnet, Alexandria Senior High School, and Pineville High School. Although the threats were classified as “non-credible,” investigations into their origins are still active. The first of the two arrests involved a juvenile associated with threats against Pineville High School, who has been booked on a terrorizing charge. The second juvenile was detained later and booked into the Renaissance Home for Youth for similar charges regarding threats made against Peabody and Alexandria Senior High.

The RPSO also indicated that the threats were linked to a prior shooting incident at a Pineville club earlier that morning. As a precaution, authorities have increased security and law enforcement presence around the affected campuses to ensure the safety of students and faculty.

Superintendent of the Rapides Parish School Board, Jeff Powell, expressed appreciation for the rapid response by local law enforcement and urged parents to be understanding of the heightened security measures being implemented. The initial decision to cancel the homecoming parade came from verified intelligence indicating credible threats to public safety, leading to a collective focus on protecting students and the broader community.

Further investigation by law enforcement agencies revealed that some potential threats may have originated from individuals outside of Rapides Parish, possibly connected to intentions of retaliation based on previous incidents. These escalating security concerns have also raised alarm regarding the potential impact on local businesses and emergency services throughout the homecoming weekend.

As investigations continue, law enforcement has called on the public for assistance in gathering information related to the threats. They have provided multiple contact numbers for reporting any relevant tips. The focus remains squarely on ensuring the safety and security of the students and the community during this troubling period.