UNION COUNTY, N.C. — Hundreds of parents and students are on edge Thursday after investigators say a 15-year-old sent violent messages to children at four different schools in Union County.
That teen is still in custody.
Channel 9′s Eli Brand spoke with some of the students Weddington High School who received those texts. He learned deputies got calls from 300 parents this week.
Some witnesses said several students were absent Wednesday after the threats started to spread around.
Union County sheriff’s investigators said it was a 15-year-old Cuthbertson High School female student that caused the panic this week.
She’s accused of sending multiple texts and social media messages Tuesday night threatening violence against Cuthbertson, Sun Valley, Weddington, and Parkwood high schools.
At least one of those messages said, “Do not come to school tomorrow – I will shoot up the school,” followed by two gun emojis.
Sheriff’s deputies said there has been no evidence that the student accused of this ever planned on carrying out the threats.
During an interview, the teenager admitted the only motive for her actions was her desire to avoid attending school.
According to deputies, the 15-year-old has been charged with multiple counts of felony communicating a threat of mass violence on educational property.
Other students said it had an effect.
“In my first block, there were only eleven students,” Cuthbertson freshman Mariah Joiner told Channel 9.
“I feel like that’s not something you should joke about,” Stela Ganxhi, another Cuthberton student, said.
Parents told Channel 9 the impact of such a threat takes its toll. Many said they also had to call out of work Wednesday.
“Of course, I get concerned; every day I’m concerned,” said parent Tom Ganxhi.
“Most of these turn out to be hoaxes, but it’s always that one that isn’t that you’re worried about,” parent Brian Whiteman expressed.
The sheriff’s office has warned that making these threats could ruin a child’s life.
“Time and time again, we have stressed to our community that we will utilize a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to threats against our local school campuses,” Sheriff Eddie Cathey said. “This teenager didn’t want to go to school and selfishly caused widespread panic throughout our community. She will now face the consequences of her poor choices.
Deputies are continuing to investigate those responsible for copycat messages distributed after the first threats were made.
Union County officials said they’ll continue to ensure the safety of the district’s schools, students, and teachers.
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