Students scale fence at Taft High School in Woodland Hills amid shooting threat

LOS ANGELES - Police are investigating the credibility of a social media threat warning of a possible shooting at Taft High School in Woodland Hills Tuesday, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. 

Officers were sent to the campus in the 5400 block of Winnetka Avenue at about 9 a.m. on a threat investigation.

SkyFOX video from over the school located in the 5400 block of Winnetka Avenue showed a large police presence as well as students, staff, and parents surrounding the school's outside perimeter.

"They said there was somebody who posted there was going to be a shooting today on campus and posted a picture of a gun on his lap," said Brandon Sharkey, a parent.

FOX 11 found the threatening posts on a now-deleted Instagram page. The posts warn of a shooting "possibly in 4th period, then 5th period," finally telling students to not leave, but to "stay and watch."

The school was not placed on lockdown, police said. However, video from outside the school showed students climbing over a fence to get off campus.

"Tons of people walked out of school," said Shiloh James, a student. "They just walked out or jumped the fence.  They did not want to wait."

In a statement, a spokesperson with the Los Angeles Unified School District confirmed the district was alerted of a social media post that "raised concerns about the safety of our campus." 

"At this point, there is no evidence of a credible threat. Out of an abundance of caution, school authorities will be providing additional patrols in and around our school campus. We take the safety and security of our students and our campus very seriously. All statements that raise concerns about the safety of our campus are immediately and thoroughly investigated to ensure the safety of our students," the spokesperson added.

Hundreds of parents left work to pick up their kids early from school.

"I was scared," said Kevin Lee, a parent. "I was hoping nothing happened to him. Got here as quick as I can so I could get him."

"[These threats] are all legit," said Derek James, another parent. "You just never know. I don’t take them lightly."

Officials are reminding everyone to report any suspicious behavior or statements made to staff or local authorities.

The investigation was being conducted by the LAPD and school police officers.

"It’s a new world," said Sharkey. "You don’t think it’s going to happen here, but you have to be aware of it. Unfortunately, kind of a lost day."

You can reach the Los Angeles School Police Department’s communication center at 213.625.6631.

City News Service contributed to this report.