Ishpeming HS Student Dies; Threats Investigated in Stephenson and Rudyard

Athletic events at Ishpeming High School were canceled last night, following the death of a student. Director of Business Services Anthony Bertucci did not reveal the student’s identity, or the cause of death. In a written statement, he asked for “time and opportunity to address this sensitive matter.” A team of professionals has been assembled to provide counseling and support for Ishpeming students. This is the second death of an Upper Peninsula high school student this fall. 17-year-old Jimmy Bell from Hancock drowned in the Portage Canal on September 24th.

The Stephenson School District was back to business as usual yesterday, following a lockdown on Monday caused by a bomb threat. In the eastern U.P., an investigation continues into a school shooting threat in Rudyard. A message was posted on a social media site yesterday. Chippewa County officials say they don’t believe there’s any actual danger.