MESA, Ariz. — Multiple juveniles could be facing charges for separate incidents reported within the last week involving threats and false reports at Mesa Public Schools.
The Mesa Police Department announced Thursday the agency had identified multiple children who were allegedly involved in making threatening statements to "shoot up" a school.
One of the incidents involved a social media threat reported on Sept. 17 titled "The List" and contained the names of Stapley Junior High students. Mesa police said the list was created back in March by a 13-year-old who was charged with disrupting an educational facility and other charges are currently pending.
On Sept. 19, officers became aware of a new list of names circulating around Stapley Junior High. Police have identified a suspect and are continuing to investigate.
These other incidents have been investigated by Mesa police in the last week:
- On Sept. 12, Students at Eastmark High School reported hearing another student say they wanted to "shoot up" the school. Police identified a 17-year-old suspect who could be facing charges of making threats.
- On Sept. 13, other students at Eastmark High School reported hearing another student make threats. Police referred a 13-year-old to juvenile court for possible charges.
- On Sept. 13, a 15-year-old was referred to juvenile court after Mountain View High School students reported someone was making threats.
- On Sept. 16, Bush Elementary School received a call from someone reporting a shooter on campus. Officers determined there was no shooter and the 11-year-old caller is facing charges.
Mesa is one of several districts across Arizona that has been recently investigating social media threats circulating online. Other police departments have reported making arrests.
UP TO SPEED