At approximately 8:25 am on Friday, October 20th, the Rochester School Department sent an urgent phone message to parents regarding a suspicious backpack found near Spaulding High School.

The recorded message included the following statement:

“We are writing to let you know that a backpack was found on the side of the street near one of our bus stops. The bag contained a firearm. This was investigated by the RPD and it has been determined that it is unrelated to school.”

According to the School Department, at no time was the safety of any of the students compromised. The message concluded by stating, “We want to commend the people who reported this and the quick action by the Rochester Police Department.”

Deputy Police Chief Andrew Swanberry is taking this opportunity to remind and encourage citizens to report suspicious activity as soon as possible.

“If you see something, say something,” said Swanberry. “Although we quickly determined that the backpack and firearm were not school-related, it may not always be the case in the future. If you see something suspicious, don’t wait. Call 9-1-1 immediately.”

Swanberry reports that the Rochester Police Department is still actively investigating this situation. If you have credible information pertaining to this investigation, please contact the Rochester Police Department at (603) 330-7128.

Tipsters can also anonymously provide information by calling the Rochester Crime Line at (603) 335-6500 or by texting TEXT4CASH (and information) to CRIMES (274637). Cash rewards are offered for information that leads to an arrest.