Juvenile in Florida suspected in Derby High School threat
A juvenile in Florida is suspected of posting an online threat last week claiming there would be a shooting at Derby High School, Derby officials said.
The suspect “has no connection with Derby High School. It appears the threat was a random event,” according to a news release issued Friday.
Derby spokeswoman Kristy Bansemer said the Federal Bureau of Investigation helped Derby police identify the suspect Thursday. The FBI and Florida law enforcement officials will continue to investigate the case, Bansemer said.
On Tuesday, Derby police received a tip concerning a threat posted on a gaming website regarding a planned shooting at Derby High. The comment was posted March 27 on the site; there was not a date specified for the shooting threat, officials said.
Derby High held classes as scheduled Wednesday but had extra law enforcement officials on hand.
“Our thanks go out to the FBI and Derby Public School officials for their assistance during this investigation,” said Derby Police Chief Robert Lee in Friday’s statement. “We also appreciate the patience and support of Derby High School parents and students.”
Reach Suzanne Perez Tobias at 316-268-6567 or stobias@wichitaeagle.com. Follow her on Twitter: @suzannetobias.
This story was originally published April 3, 2015 at 12:11 PM with the headline "Juvenile in Florida suspected in Derby High School threat."