12-Year-Old Arrested for Threatening Mass Shooting at Norfolk County Schools

12-Year-Old Arrested for Threatening Mass Shooting at Norfolk County Schools
High School hallway - Photo by Melissa Evanko

NORFOLK COUNTY, MA – Authorities have apprehended a 12-year-old in connection with threats of a mass shooting directed at Coakley Middle School and Norwood High School in Norfolk County. The Norwood Police Department announced the arrest following the discovery of a threatening group text, which was brought to officials’ attention on Friday. The text ominously warned of a mass shooting scheduled for Monday, March 11, at the middle school, and a subsequent threat targeted Norwood High School.

In response to the threats, Norwood police enhanced security measures at both educational institutions while detectives endeavored to identify the sender. Despite the perpetrator’s claims of using an untraceable phone number, police were able to quickly link the threatening messages to the 12-year-old, whose identity has not been disclosed due to their age. The incident underscores the effectiveness of prompt investigative efforts and the serious consequences of making threats against schools.