A 17-year-old student at Poinciana High School was arrested after allegedly threatening to “shoot up a school” and being found with a stolen gun, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. The situation unfolded after an anonymous tip received through FortifyFL, prompting the sheriff’s office to notify a school resource officer.
The school resource officer visited the student’s home and spoke with both the teenager and his mother. According to the Sheriff’s Office, during the questioning, the youth reportedly became anxious and briefly fainted. Deputies then requested permission to conduct a safety search of the residence.
During the search, deputies found the juvenile’s backpack that he typically brings to school. Inside of the backpack, deputies found a clear bottle labeled “Crown Royal Regal Apple”, a black Glock 19 gun, and a 34-round extended magazine.
The juvenile was asked by deputies where he obtained the firearm. The juvenile said he found the gun in Orlando and admitted that he did not own the firearm. A search of the firearm’s serial number revealed it was reported as stolen. Marijuana and paraphernalia were also discovered in the juvenile’s room. While going through the juvenile’s dresser drawer, additional bullets were also discovered.
The principal of Poinciana High School sent a message to families Tuesday afternoon about the threat and arrest, expressing the importance of transparency regarding the threat and the continued partnership with law enforcement:
“This is Principal Jeff Schwartz at Poinciana High School. I feel that it is important to let parents know that a threat of school violence was made by one of our students. I am very proud of the person who reported it on FortifyFL, which led to quick action and a thorough investigation by the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. The student who made the threat will face discipline and law enforcement consequences. Be assured that Poinciana High will continue to work side-by-side with law enforcement to ensure that our school is a safe place to learn and work. I encourage students and parents that if they see or hear something that threatens safety to say something. We will always listen and respond. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.”
The student faces multiple charges, including Grand theft of a firearm, Possession of a firearm by a minor, Possession of marijuana under 20 grams, Possession of alcohol by a person under 21, and Possession of drug paraphernalia.