AUBURN — A juvenile has been summoned to court following threats to “shoot up” Auburn Middle School, according to police officials.
The incident began late Thursday afternoon, March 27, when the middle school’s principal contacted a School Resource Officer about a threat made by a student on social media that specifically named two students as targets.
Auburn Police Chief Lemon was simultaneously contacted by Dr. Elizabeth Chamberland, prompting an immediate investigation.
Authorities noted the threat was discovered after school had dismissed, and the student in question was already not attending classes due to a prior incident.
“At no time were students or staff in immediate danger,” police said in a statement.
Detectives worked with school staff and witnesses to identify the juvenile responsible for the threats and brought the case to court Friday morning.
Despite the seriousness of the threats and the juvenile having prior offenses, the court issued a summons rather than an arrest warrant after finding probable cause for the charges.
The juvenile will be arraigned in April on three charges: two misdemeanors and one felony.
Chief Lemon emphasized that school safety remains the department’s top priority, stating they will “take all necessary measures to protect our children, including charging and arresting those who pose a threat.”
Students at Auburn Middle School and Auburn High School are encouraged to use the Sandy Hook “Say Something” anonymous tip line to report any threats, with QR codes available in schools and the app accessible on student iPads.
