News Summary
The City of Alexandria has canceled the Peabody Magnet High School Homecoming Parade and Game due to credible threats aimed at the event. Law enforcement verified the threats, which were connected to a recent violent incident at a local bar. Authorities reported concerns regarding individuals potentially armed during the festivities. The school plans to reschedule the football game and emphasizes safety as the priority. Community members expressed disappointment but understand the importance of precautionary measures. Organizers are seeking alternative ways to honor alumni and maintain community spirit.
Alexandria Cancels Peabody Magnet High School Homecoming Events Due to Threats
Alexandria, LA — The upcoming Peabody Magnet High School Homecoming Parade and Game, scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 2025, have been officially canceled amid credible threats targeting the event, according to a statement from the City of Alexandria.
Declaration of Cancellation and Reasons
The cancellation was announced through an official news release, emphasizing that law enforcement and school officials decided to halt the events as a precaution. The threats were verified through intelligence reports, indicating that individuals outside of Rapides Parish posed retaliatory threats directed toward parade attendees, students, and alumni. Authorities reported concerns about individuals armed with long guns with the intent to cause harm during the festivities.
Details of Threats and Incidents
The threats stemmed from tensions related to an incident at the Super Daqx bar outside Alexandria. Multiple calls to law enforcement reported shots fired at this establishment located in the 7500 block of U.S. 71 South. When deputies arrived, they found several people injured; some victims had been transported to local hospitals via personal vehicles. Initial reports indicate that four individuals have been injured, though their current conditions have not been disclosed. The investigation remains active, and authorities continue to gather information about the events.
Impact on School Events and Community Response
In light of these threats and recent violence, Peabody Magnet High School communicated via Facebook that the decision to cancel the homecoming activities was made out of an abundance of caution, emphasizing coordination with local law enforcement. The school also announced plans to contact the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) to reschedule the football game, with details to be announced later.
Official Statements and Future Planning
Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy issued a statement clarifying that the threats originated from outside the city, and no incidents had taken place within Alexandria itself. Mayor Roy highlighted the importance of implementing preventive measures to ensure safety for all citizens and event participants. As a potential replacement event, organizers are considering a gathering to honor Peabody alumni, aiming to maintain community spirit despite the cancellation.
Historical Significance and Community Sentiment
Peabody Magnet High School has a long-standing tradition of celebrating community pride through its homecoming events. The school, which has served Alexandria since the late 1800s as a vital educational institution—originally providing the only public schooling for Black students from grades one to seven—holds a deep cultural and historical significance for many residents.
Alumni and community members expressed feelings of loss over the cancellation but emphasized the importance of ensuring safety above all else. Many are also eager to preserve and honor the legacy of past students and community members who have contributed to the school’s history and the broader local heritage.
Conclusion
The decision to cancel the Peabody Magnet High School Homecoming Parade and Game underscores ongoing concerns about safety amid credible threats. Authorities continue their investigation into recent violence related to the incident at the Super Daqx bar, and community leaders are prioritizing preventive measures to protect residents and visitors. Future community events are being planned to foster unity and remembrance, despite the unforeseen disruptions caused by these threats.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Alexandria Cancels High School Homecoming Parade Over Threat
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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