STUDENT ARRESTED AFTER THREATENING MASS SHOOTING AT POWAY SCHOOL

By Miriam Raftery

February 10, 2013 (Poway) – A 12-year-old student at Twin Peaks Middle School has been arrested after sending an e-mail to an administrator Friday night threatening to shoot 23 students and a teacher at the school on Monday, February 11.

According to the  San Diego County Sheriff's department, the e-mail also claimed the student had access to numerous firearms and 3,000 rounds of ammunition. Yesterday, a search of the student’s home found numerous rifles and handguns along with computers, ECM news partner 10 News reports.

The student has been admitted to a hospital for treatment and evaluation.  The case will be submitted to the District Attorney for review, however making a terrorist threat is a felony in California. 

Principal Kelly Burke sent a letter urging parents to discuss the situation with children “to ensure their comfort and safety.” Counselors will be available to speak with students who may feel vulnerable, Burke said, adding that the incident may draw national media attention.  The principal concluded that “we remain committed to keeping the safety of our children our highest priority.”

The Sheriff's Department learned of the threat yesterday morning and began an investigation with the Poway Criminal Apprehension Team (PCAT) and the Crime High-Tech Response Team (CATCH). Investigators traced the email through the student's Internet service provider due to the seriousness of the threat.

Officials did not sweep the campus for weapons, but armed deputies will be on campus Monday, Poway Patch.com reported. Authorities have indicated there is no evidence that anyone else was involved in the threats.

"Obviously, this is saddening and disturbing," Poway Unified School District Superintendent John Collins, expressing relief that the system worked to avoid a tragedy at the school.