News Summary
Peabody Magnet High School has canceled its homecoming parade and football game due to credible threats against participants, posing serious safety concerns. The City of Alexandria confirmed verified intelligence of retaliatory threats involving weaponry aimed at attendees. School officials emphasized their commitment to student safety and are coordinating with law enforcement. An alternative event honoring alumni is tentatively being arranged to celebrate the school’s legacy, which has been a crucial part of the community’s history. Community members are feeling a deep sense of loss over the cancellation.
Alexandria, Louisiana – The homecoming parade and football game for Peabody Magnet High School, set to occur on Saturday, September 27, 2025, have been canceled due to credible threats against participants. The City of Alexandria announced the cancellation in a news release, citing verified intelligence of retaliatory threats from individuals outside of Rapides Parish aimed at parade-goers, students, and alumni.
The threats reported include allegations of individuals carrying long-gun weapons with intent to harm those attending the parade. These threats were linked to events surrounding the Super Daqx bar located just outside of Alexandria. In an unrelated incident, officers from the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) responded to multiple calls reporting shots fired at an establishment in the 7500 block of U.S. 71 S. Upon arrival, deputies discovered that several individuals had been shot. Victims were subsequently transported to nearby hospitals by personal vehicles, and while initial investigations suggest there were four victims, their current statuses remain unconfirmed. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Peabody Magnet High School announced the decision to cancel the events on their Facebook page, stating that the choice was made out of an abundance of caution and in coordination with local law enforcement. The school expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety of its students and the community. Plans to contact the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) were also mentioned, with assurances that a new date and time for the game will be provided at a later date.
Alexandria’s Mayor Jacques Roy clarified that the threats leading to the cancellation originated outside the city and were not a response to any incidents happening within Alexandria itself. The mayor emphasized the importance of preventive measures in light of the credible threats posed to innocent attendees of the parade.
In response to the cancellation, tentative arrangements for an event honoring Peabody alumni were announced as a possible alternative celebration to acknowledge the contributions and legacy of those who may have passed during this year’s anticipated activities.
Peabody Magnet High School holds a significant place in Alexandria’s history, having been established in the late 1800s. It was historically known for being the only public institution for black students in the area, serving grades one through seven. The school’s homecoming events have long been a cherished tradition, fostering community pride and celebrating the heritage of its alumni.
The decision to cancel the homecoming festivities has left many alumni and community members feeling a deep sense of loss. The planned celebration was expected to honor not just current students but also those who have contributed to the school’s legacy over the decades. Community members are hopeful that the planned alternative event can still provide an opportunity for reflection and remembrance.
In summary, the Peabody Magnet High School homecoming parade and game cancellation reflects serious safety concerns due to credible threats, demonstrating the community’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its members during these troubling times.
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Peabody Magnet High School Homecoming Parade Canceled
Additional Resources
- KALB: Peabody Homecoming Game & Parade Canceled
- Wikipedia: Homecoming
- KALB: Peabody Magnet High School Homecoming Parade
- Google Search: Peabody Magnet High School
- The Town Talk: Ken Burns Production Team Seeks Stories
- Google Scholar: Peabody High School
- KALB: Peabody’s Homecoming Draws Generations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Homecoming
- CenlaNOW: Peabody High Homecoming Prompts Road Closures
- Google News: Peabody Homecoming
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