Update: Pigs let loose at May River High in ‘senior prank gone wrong.’ What we know
Pigs were let loose at May River High School on Friday as part of a “possible senior prank gone wrong,” Beaufort County School District Superintendent Frank Rodriguez confirmed.
The alleged prank, which happened Friday morning, caused “significant” vandalism at the Bluffton high school Friday, according to an alert sent to parents just before 9:45 a.m.
Students were in the gymnasium while building conditions were assessed to see if instruction could still happen for the day. Around 10:44 a.m., it was determined the cleanup required was too significant to allow classes to continue. Buses were scheduled to take kids home around 11:45 a.m.
The incident is currently under investigation by the Bluffton Police Department, according to an email from law enforcement. It was not immediately clear if the pigs themselves were the cause of the damage.
In a statement, Beaufort County School District spokesperson Candace Bruder said while the district understands that kids might think senior pranks are harmless fun, “actions that damage property, disrupt school operations or violate the law are not acceptable.”
“We ask that parents speak with students about making responsible choices and understanding the potential consequences of their actions,” Bruder said. “Any prank resulting in vandalism, theft, trespassing and/or damage to school property may result in school discipline, restitution for damages and referral to law enforcement for possible criminal prosecution.”
More information will be released as it becomes available, police said. Anyone with information is asked to contact Lt. Marciano at the Bluffton Police Department (843) 706-4532.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
This story was originally published May 15, 2026 at 11:33 AM.