Investigators said the teen threatened the victim multiple times from a blocked number.
ORANGE PARK, Fla. — A 16-year-old was taken into custody on Saturday following threats of a shooting at Orange Park High School on the first school day, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.
The teenager, whose identity First Coast News is withholding due to their minor status, allegedly made threats to a student at the high school via phone. Authorities reported that the suspect repeatedly called the victim from a blocked number on Wednesday, and they were informed of the situation on Thursday.
Police said the suspect seemed to have personal knowledge about the victim, which led to notifying the victim’s family about the potential danger. Even after the victim’s mother took over the call, the suspect continued with the threats, as stated by the sheriff’s office.
The sheriff’s office worked with the Clay County School Board to identify the suspect, who was later identified as a 16-year-old boy.
On Sunday, investigators interviewed and arrested the suspect on charges of aggravated stalking and illegal use of a two-way communication device, both being felony charges. The sheriff’s office confirmed there was no evidence of the suspect having access to firearms and believed this was a singular occurrence.
The suspect was taken to the juvenile detention center in Jacksonville.
“The Clay County Sheriff’s Office and Clay County School Board prioritize student safety, and violent threats will not be accepted,” stated the sheriff’s office in a press release. “Our schools are environments dedicated to growth and learning, free from violence.”
Anyone possessing information about threats is encouraged to contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office by dialing 911, the non-emergency number at (904)264-6512, or by using the county’s SaferWatch app to submit tips.
