Flagler County

‘Don’t come to school tomorrow’: 12-year-old arrested, accused of threatening school shooting in Flagler County

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — A 12-year-old elementary school student in Flagler County was arrested on Wednesday after he was accused of threatening to shoot up the school.

Deputies said the boy spoke with multiple students at Bunnell Elementary School, saying, “Don’t come to school tomorrow. I’m shooting up the school.’'

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When questioned, the boy admitted to making the threats but claimed it was only a joke, appearing remorseful and apologetic.

The boy was arrested and charged with false report concerning the use of firearms in a violent manner.

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“Parents - it is time to talk to your children and remind them that their words matter. Please be the sheriff in your home so we don’t have to be,” Sheriff Rick Staly said in a statement. “This is the third case in as many weeks. We have a zero tolerance policy for threats in Flagler County, especially when it comes to our schools. We investigate every threat and while we don’t like making these arrests we will make an arrest if there is probable cause. Thank you to the student that came forward and reported this. Remember, if you see something, say something.”

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To report suspicious activity to law enforcement, call 386-313-4911 or email TIPS@flaglersheriff.com. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-888-277-TIPS (8477).

Sarah Wilson

Sarah Wilson, WFTV.com

Sarah Wilson joined WFTV Channel 9 in 2018 as a digital producer after working as an award-winning newspaper reporter for nearly a decade in various communities across Central Florida.