Poway High Student Arrested for Allegedly Threatening to Bring Guns to School

Updated 1:56 p.m. Friday with statement sent to parents.

POWAY, CA -- A Poway High School student reportedly made a verbal death threat to another student, Sheriff's Department officials said Friday.

The suspected student also apparently threatened to bring guns to the school. Officials said the threatened student notified his mother who later notified officials Thursday evening.

The suspect—who was identified as a 14-year-old, ninth grade student—was taken into custody without incident and later booked into Juvenile Hall, officials said.

The suspect did not have access to any firearms and there is no indication anyone else was involved in the threats, according to officials.

Poway Unified School District, Poway Sheriff's Station and the Poway Criminal Apprehension Team investigated the matter and plan to submit the case to the San Diego County District Attorney's Office for review and evaluation.

This incident comes just weeks after a 12-year-old Twin Peaks Middle School student was arrested for allegedly planning to shoot nearly two dozen students and his teacher.

Making a terrorist threat is a felony in the State of California, according to officials. Anyone with information can call the Sheriff's Department non-emergency line at 858-513-2800.

The following message, as provided by PUSD officials, was sent to parents Friday morning shortly after a message was sent to school staff:

"Good morning parents, this is Scott Fisher, principal of Poway High calling to share with you information we have received this morning from the Poway Sheriff’s Department. Let me start by reassuring you that all is well and there is no concern for the safety of our students or security of the school, but I want you to be fully informed.

Late yesterday afternoon, we received a report that a Poway High student had made a threat of gun violence against another student.   This was immediately reported to the Sheriff’s Department and they began their investigation. This morning we received a report from the Sheriff’s Department that the student has been taken into custody. Sheriff’s Deputies report that this student was acting alone, and there is no reason to believe any students or staff was ever in danger. To ensure a calm start to the school day, we will have an increased presence of law enforcement at the school.

We take all statements of violence on our campuses very seriously. This is a good example of the entire school community working effectively with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of our students. You are encouraged to speak with your child and encourage them to always report to school staff any concerns.”

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