A suspect is in custody, while the first day of school for Shaler Area students has been postponed, after school leaders said a threat was made towards the district.

In a letter to families, Superintendent Dr. Bryan O'Black and Shaler Township Police Chief Sean Frank said the police department was notified of a threat towards "Shaler Schools" early Monday morning.

The letter says the individual responsible for the threat, later identified as 28-year-old Daniel White, was not believed to have any connection to the district. 

A be on the lookout alert was issued for White, and upon hearing that alert, an Allegheny County sheriff deputy recognized White's name due to his involvement with mental health court and knew that he was due to be in the courthouse on Monday morning. 

White was subsequently apprehended by that sheriff deputy and taken into custody.

On Sunday, White allegedly entered resolve Crisis Services in Point Breeze, threatening to injure and kill two people. He allegedly said, "I am a murderer, and I will kill everyone," while saying he would specifically target students at Shaler Area Elementary School.

White faces three misdemeanor counts of terroristic threats.

KDKA-TV reached out to the resolve Crisis Center, where White made the initial threats, for comment several times and has not heard back.

Shaler Area School District modifying schedules

Superintendent O'Black released a follow-up statement after White was taken into custody.

A short time ago, the individual who made threats against our schools was taken into police custody. While this development provides reassurance, it is important to understand the gravity of the situation. According to court documents filed in Allegheny County, the suspect has been charged with three misdemeanor counts of making terroristic threats. These charges reflect the seriousness of the statements that were made and underscore why immediate action by law enforcement, along with the swift response of the school district, was both necessary and appropriate.

We remain in close coordination with the Shaler Township and Allegheny County Police as they continue their investigation. With the suspect now in custody and in coordination with local law enforcement, staff may access our school buildings if they desire. Our local police will continue to maintain a visible presence on campuses to provide reassurance and support as we transition back into our normal routines.

The safety and well-being of our staff and students remain our highest priority. We are deeply grateful to our local law enforcement partners for their swift response, strong partnership, and unwavering support during this time.

Previously announced changes will remain in effect.

The district has postponed its Orientation Day for students in grades K, 4, 7, and 9 from Monday to Tuesday. The first day of school has been postponed from Tuesday to Wednesday.