TENNESSEE — A teenager was arrested Friday after allegedly making a threat against Cookeville High School, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said school resource deputies were notified of a threat reportedly made by a 17-year-old student.
According to officials, the student stated, “I have a gun, and I’m going to shoot up the school.”
Deputies located the teen and took him into custody. Investigators said the student admitted to making the statement but claimed it was intended as a joke.
The teen was transported to the Putnam County Juvenile Detention Center and charged with making a threat of mass violence.
Officials said the school was not placed on lockdown.
“There is nothing that would be considered a joke when it comes to making threats of mass violence to our schools,” Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris said. “We take every comment like this seriously and will respond quickly to ensure the safety of our students and staff. Anyone who makes a threat will be held accountable according to state law.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
