Photo: Althom / iStock / Getty Images
Three teenagers have been arrested in connection with a credible mass shooting threat directed at Clinton Middle School. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office reported that a 14-year-old girl, a 13-year-old girl, and a 13-year-old boy were involved in the plot, which mentioned a planned shooting in the school's cafeteria on Friday, April 17.
The investigation began when a concerned parent reported a Snapchat post to authorities. Deputies responded to a residence in Kirkland early Saturday morning (April 11) and transported a 14-year-old girl to Wynn Hospital for a mental health evaluation. Later, a 13-year-old girl was also taken to the hospital for evaluation. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office secured 11 firearms from the home of the 13-year-old boy, who was later charged with second-degree conspiracy, a Class B felony, and released to his guardian with an appearance ticket.
According to WKTV, the two girls were charged with aggravated threat of mass harm, a Class A misdemeanor, and referred to Oneida County Probation. The investigation remains open, and additional charges may be filed.
WSYR-TV reported that over 40 guns were seized from two homes during the investigation. Sheriff Robert Maciol stated that the threat was one of the most credible the office has encountered, emphasizing the importance of parental vigilance in monitoring children's activities.
The Oneida County Office of Mental Health will provide crisis intervention and support to the Clinton Central School District. Superintendent Christopher Clancy assured parents that counseling services would be available to help students and staff process the unsettling news.
Utica Observer-Dispatch noted that the investigation involved multiple units from the sheriff's office, including road patrol, juvenile aid, and threat assessment teams. Authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact the Criminal Investigation Unit at 315-765-2226.