A bomb threat email that prompted the evacuation of Martin County High School on Thursday has been traced by investigators to a hacked account at a Stuart residence, with evidence suggesting the attack originated from Russia and may be linked to a pattern of swatting cases. The Martin County Sheriff's Office confirmed the email was sent Thursday afternoon, triggering a law enforcement response that included the school district and the FBI's tip line, though a comprehensive search found no evidence of an actual threat.
Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek said the threatening email claimed three bombs had been planted at the school and would detonate by 2:30 p.m. or 3 p.m. The message included the name of a specific male and a location for the devices.
Investigators traced the email address to a Stuart residence. Budensiek said the account holder appears to be a victim whose email was compromised. The individual is from Ukraine, and the email originated from Russia. Deputies went to the home, and the resident has cooperated with the investigation.
Budensiek said forensic analysis is underway to confirm the hacking and verify the Russian origin of the message. He said the incident fits a trend of swatting cases the agency has encountered. The school was evacuated, parents were notified, and deputies swept the campus before determining there was no credible threat and allowing the school day to resume.