GAINESVILLE, Ga. — A 13-year-old East Hall Middle School student faces a felony charge after allegedly threatening to carry out a shooting at the school Tuesday, Sept. 8.
According to the Hall County Sheriff’s Office, the student made comments about shooting people at the school around 11:30 a.m. in the lunchroom. School administrators learned of the comments later that afternoon after receiving a tip.
The principal and another administrator quickly located the student and searched him and his book bag. No weapons were found.
During questioning, the student admitted making the statement but said he was joking, investigators said.
“The threat was not credible; however, the district takes comments like this seriously, whether they are said in jest or not,” Hall County Schools Communications Director Stan Lewis said. “The student will be disciplined accordingly and obviously is facing criminal charges.”
Lewis praised the students who reported the comments to administrators.
“We are proud of the students who shared their concerns with the school administration,” he said.
Principal Dr. Christy Hastings notified families about the incident Tuesday afternoon. She said law enforcement officers and school officials conducted a safety assessment and found no evidence of a credible threat.
“We encourage parents to use this occasion to remind students about the importance of responsible communication and the serious consequences that arise from making threatening statements, regardless of intent,” Hastings wrote.
The student was charged as a juvenile with making terroristic threats and acts. He was released into the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice.
Don’t miss what everyone in town is talking about.
Join 4,000+ locals and choose our free newsletter covering news, events and the stories shaping our region.
