14-Year-Old Detained Over Serious Threat to Middle School Shooting

A 14-year-old is in police custody following a threat of violence directed at Desert Wind Middle School in Maricopa, reported by the Maricopa Police Department (MPD) and the Maricopa Unified School District (MUSD). The announcement came after school officials flagged a concerning post circulating on social media.

MPD quickly responded to the report and identified the suspect, who remains unnamed due to age restrictions. “The threat has been contained,” reassured Desert Wind Middle School Principal Aidan Balt.

MUSD spokesperson Mishell Terry explained that officials were alerted to the post on the Snapchat account “Desert Wind Middle School Stories,” which is not linked to the school itself. “Desert Wind Middle School will remain open, and classes will continue as scheduled,” Terry confirmed.

The district emphasized its commitment to student safety, noting that the individual behind the threat could face felony charges under Arizona law for threatening to injure school personnel or students. Such charges carry potential prison sentences ranging from four months to six years.

“MUSD is working closely with the police department and will pursue charges to the fullest extent,” Terry stated. She also expressed gratitude towards the parents and students who reported the incident, urging families to remain vigilant and report any concerns.

Parents have voiced their worries over the severity of the threats, including the targeting of staff members by name and claims that the suspect was in possession of a firearm. Brianna Romero, a parent of a Desert Wind student, reacted with shock. “To know the kid got arrested is insane because that shows he was an actual threat,” she said, referring to the student’s social media posts.

This incident occurs on the heels of a tragic school shooting in Georgia that claimed the lives of four individuals, intensifying national concerns regarding school safety. In response to this growing anxiety, MUSD recently launched a “Visitor Aware” digital check-in program. This initiative aims to enhance security by requiring visitors to check in, present identification, and wear a badge while on campus.

Prior to this situation, the FBI had assisted MPD with credible threats involving Desert Sunrise High School, where two teenagers faced charges for threatening a homecoming event. One was caught with an illegal firearm on school grounds.

Currently, the investigation into this latest threat continues, and further updates will be provided as they emerge, according to Terry. “The investigation remains ongoing,” she reported. “As a result, no additional details can be shared at this time.”