Juvenile Suspect, Involved School Shooting Threat Hoax, in Custody

Jefferson Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Jefferson County Sheriff Dave Marshak announced the detention of a juvenile suspect involved in a recent school shooting threat at Ridgewood Middle School. The suspect, whose identity is protected due to their age, was taken into custody by a Sheriff’s Office Detective. The Jefferson County Division of Juvenile Justice has filed a petition for the felony charge of Making a Terroristic Threat in the 2nd Degree.

On September 17, 2024, a Ridgewood Middle School official alerted the Sheriff’s Office to a threat posted on social media, reported by a juvenile. The threat warned of a planned shooting at the school, specifying the exact time and location. Deputies swiftly responded to secure the building, while detectives began an immediate investigation. With assistance from the FBI’s St. Louis Field Office, authorities traced the threat to a social media account.

Further investigation, including interviews and digital forensic analysis, revealed that the juvenile who originally reported the threat was in fact responsible for creating the account and making the hoax threat.

The incident caused a significant disruption at the school, forcing a lockdown that spread fear and anxiety among students, parents, and staff. The investigation required over 40 man-hours, diverting Deputies and Detectives from other important duties and investigations.

“We take these incidents very seriously because our students deserve a safe school environment,” said Undersheriff Tim Whitney. “We will continue to investigate these cases to the fullest and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Make no mistake: school threats are not a joke. They carry serious consequences that can change the course of a young person’s life.”

Authorities are urging students and parents to recognize the gravity of these threats, warning that similar actions will lead to severe legal consequences and disrupt the educational environment. The Sheriff’s Office continues to prioritize school safety and will pursue all threats with the highest level of scrutiny and urgency.