14-year-old brought gun to school, made shooting threat, Chatham sheriff says
The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office seized a gun from a Northwood High School student who allegedly threatened to carry out a shooting at the school.
Authorities were alerted the 14-year-old student had brought the gun to school Wednesday and shown it to another student.
Deputies went to the student’s home and took the gun. The juvenile will be charged through the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Sheriff’s Office said Friday afternoon.
“We will not tolerate any actions that jeopardize the well-being of our school environment. School safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we urge the public to be vigilant,” Sheriff Mike Roberson said in a statement.
Tips on potential threats from the public are essential to law enforcement protecting schools, Roberson said.
The News & Observer is working to learn more about the incident, such as what kind of gun was involved and what consequences the juvenile may face if prosecuted.
Sheriff’s deputies were at Northwood High School on Friday for added security, and school counselors were made available to students seeking help.
“In Chatham County Schools, unsafe and dangerous behaviors will not be tolerated, accepted, or ignored,” said Superintendent Anthony Jackson. “Students who violate our Code of Civility may face disciplinary consequences, including the possibility of long-term suspension. The creation of a secure environment for all students is non-negotiable for both students and staff.”
This story was originally published January 19, 2024 at 1:44 PM.
