Methuen Student Arrested After Threatening To 'Shoot Up The School'
METHUEN (CBS/AP) — A student has been arrested in connection to a threat made against Methuen High School.
Police say they received a report at about 5:30 p.m. Monday that a 16-year-old male student had told another student he was going to "shoot up the school" the following day. Police searched two residences the suspect had access to and recovered unnamed items related to the threats.
Police Chief Joseph Solomon says the suspect, whose name was not released, appears to have been contemplating committing a violent act for some time. The student was given a mental evaluation and later charged with threatening to commit murder and unlawful possession of ammunition. His arraignment is pending.
Methuen police said they were able to prevent any violence thanks to the teen's friend who spoke-up.
Officers said over the past month the high school junior had made comments and social media postings referencing past school shootings. On Monday, the teen's comments prompted a friend to reach out for help. Police credit her with preventing any possible violence.
"At this point, she realized it was something critical and could happen," said Methuen Police Chief Joe Solomon.
Police searched both parent's homes. In one they found tactical gear and ammunition. Officers are unsure were the teen got the bullets. A police source also said they found fake weapons.
"We don't believe there as an imminent danger to anyone at school. This girl possibly saved this child's life," said Chief Solomon.
A message went out to parents Wednesday afternoon about the situation. The superintendent said they had to wait for the police investigation before notifying parents and there was no danger as the student was in custody.
Since Monday, the student has not been at Methuen High School. He is currently undergoing a mental evaluation and will appear in juvenile court in November.
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