10/20/2026
-----------------UPDATE---------------------
The individual has been identified. Officers spoke with him and explained how his attire yesterday may have been perceived by others and why it raised concerns. He acknowledged and agreed.
School Safety Update
Good afternoon SES Families,
I am writing to inform you of a situation that occurred yesterday during the YMCA’s after-school program at our building. A YMCA program staff member noticed a male park an SUV in the back of the church parking lot and proceed into the woods adjacent to the school. The staff member reported the person may have been dressed in clothing resembling that of a security or law enforcement officer.
He walked in the woods for approximately eight minutes and left the area in the vehicle, at which point police were notified. YMCA staff brought the children inside for precautionary reasons and the program continued without incident.
Swampscott Police had an increased presence during dropoff time this morning and planned to do the same at afternoon pickup. They are in the process of trying to identify the person in question, though it should be noted that at this point there is no indication anyone was doing anything illegal. The school resource office and our administrative team are coordinating a meeting with our entire staff to review security procedures at all of our buildings.
Please reach out if you have any questions.
All the best,
Principal Sanborn
COMMUNITY INFORMATION REQUEST
The Swampscott Police Department is looking to identify and speak with an individual regarding a report from the elementary school about a male party seen walking in the woods near the elementary school, possibly dressed in tactical / security officer type gear, sometime after 3pm on October 19th, 2026. This person is NOT suspected of any crime or wrongdoing.
Swampscott Police are only interested in identifying and speaking with this person at this time to follow up on the School’s concerns.
Active enhanced security steps have been implemented in an abundance of caution at Swampscott Schools while this matter is under investigation.
If you recognize this individual or have any information that may help us identify him, please contact the Swampscott Police Department at 781-595-1111 or email Det. Sgt. Candace Doyle at [email protected].
Thank you for helping us keep our community safe and informed!
Details & Description:
Clothing: Black sweatshirt with the word “Security” on the back and black pants.
Location: Walking along the trails in the wooded area between Forest Avenue Extension and the church.
Time: Approximately 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
