Two boys have been arrested following threats to bring “shoot up” Mingus Union High School in Cottonwood.
On Wednesday, Nov. 18, at about 6:30 p.m., Cottonwood police received information from a social media site that several Mingus Union High School students were discussing plans to “shoot up” the high school on Thursday, Nov. 17, at 2 p.m., during school hours.
Details given on the social media site included a picture of what appeared to be a firearm. Cottonwood police, working closely with the administration from Mingus Union High School, identified several of the students reportedly involved in the threat.
During the investigation Cottonwood police served a search warrant on a home in Bridgeport where they recovered an Airsoft pistol matching the description of the firearm seen on the photo.
Throughout the night and into the early morning Cottonwood police along with a detective from the Gang and Immigration Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission taskforce contacted other parties listed as involved in the threat.
No further weapons were located, according to police.
“After numerous intensive interviews were completed it appears as if this situation was a very elaborate hoax, made up to ‘prank’ a fellow student,” CPD Detective Sgt. Tod Moore said.
According to CPD Cmdr. Jody Makuch, “The Cottonwood Police Department takes seriously any threat made to our schools and will put in any effort to ensure the safety of the students.”
Cottonwood police along with the administration of MUHS believe there is no credible threat to the school at this time. Cottonwood police had extra officers at the school this morning to ensure the students and parents alike could feel secure that everything was being done ensure the safety of the students.
As a result of the investigation a 14 year old boy was arrested for 2 counts of hoax, and 1 count of interference or disruption of an educational institution. A 16 year old boy was also charged with 1 count of interference or disruption of an educational institution, all felonies.
Three other 14-year-old boys were questioned and the case will be reviewed by the Yavapai County Attorney’s Office for any additional charges.
