SHAKER HEIGHTS, Ohio — Amid a potential threat that came in during the afternoon, officials in Shaker Heights made the decision to play Thursday night's high school football game between the Red Raiders and Maple Heights without fans or a band.
According to Shaker Heights Schools Executive Director of Communications/PR Scott Stephens, the potential threat was related to the Shaker Heights-Maple Heights football game. Multiple students told a "trusted adult" that they were aware of the threat.
The district immediately enacted its emergency protocol and notified the Shaker Heights Police Department.
"Out of an abundance of caution we decided to hold the game, but do it without having fans in the stands. It's more manageable for our security forces and for the police department to play the game in that fashion given the nature of this threat," Stephens said.
Kristen King's eldest son plays on the Shaker Heights football team and her youngest son helps out as a ball boy. She said she rarely misses games and was frustrated to not be able to see Thursday's contest.
"Well, why are we still playing the game if there's a security concern? Why are we taking this opportunity away from everyone all these families that come to see their kids play?" said Kristen King.
The district wouldn't release more details about who made the threat, how or what exactly it was.
"I just think its unfortunate that people can make idle threats, if its an idle threat, online or wherever and it causes huge issue for so many people," King said.
Shaker Heights school leaders add that based on the investigation so far, it has been determined that classes can safely take place on Friday. However, "out of an abundance of caution," there will be additional security and a police presence at Shaker Heights High School during the day.
Meanwhile, Shaker Heights beat Maple Heights in the game by the final of 42-8. The Red Raiders are now 5-0 this season.
Click here for more information from Shaker Heights Schools.
This is a developing story. Stay with 3News for more details as they become available.