The dark side of May 4: Storm trooper causes alarm at Wis. school

The Associated Press
Ashwaubenon, Wis.
Christine Hoehne gets a selfie with a Stormtrooper
Christine Hoehne of Minneapolis takes a selfie with a storm trooper as the 501st Legion Central Garrison mingled with fans at Star Wars night at the Timberwolves game at Target Center on Dec. 15, 2015.
Courtney Perry for MPR News 2015

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A student dressed as a storm trooper for "Star Wars Day" prompted the evacuation of a Wisconsin high school when a frightened parent saw the costumed figure entering the facility and called 911.

Police in Ashwaubenon near Green Bay say the parent saw the student going through a back door Thursday wearing body armor and a mask, and carrying a bag.

Police Capt. Jody Crocker says the parent did the right thing given the suspicious situation, and that any perceived threat — real or otherwise — can't be taken lightly.

School officials say they will re-emphasize the district's no-costume policy.

Fans have adopted May 4 as "Star Wars Day" because "May the fourth" is a play on the oft-repeated Star Wars phrase, "May the force be with you."

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