A former student of Northridge High School is now in custody after allegedly making threats that led to the closure of the entire school district on Tuesday. Authorities confirmed that an 18-year-old was apprehended early Wednesday morning, effectively neutralizing the potential danger to students and staff.
The incident prompted swift action from local law enforcement and school officials, who prioritized safety by canceling classes while the investigation unfolded. The community can now expect a return to normal operations.
Key Takeaways
- An 18-year-old former student was arrested for making a terroristic threat against Northridge High School.
- The threats led to the closure of the entire Northridge Local Schools district on Tuesday.
- Law enforcement acted quickly, taking the suspect into custody around midnight.
- School will resume on Wednesday with an increased police presence for reassurance.
- The suspect has reportedly made similar threats in the past.
Investigation Begins with Safety Hotline Call
The sequence of events began when a worker at a Montgomery County mental health and addiction treatment facility contacted Stay Safe Speak Up. This student safety hotline received a report about a threat made by an 18-year-old individual.
Montgomery County Sheriff’s deputies were immediately dispatched to Northridge High School to investigate the serious claims. The quick response highlights the priority given to school safety.
Fact Check
The Stay Safe Speak Up hotline is a critical resource for reporting potential threats, allowing mental health professionals and law enforcement to collaborate in protecting schools.
Chief of Staff Jeremy Roy from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the gravity of the situation. "When you’re talking about threats to a school and our children, we’re all going to take this stuff very serious, and we’re going to respond appropriately," Roy stated.
Suspect Identified and Sought
Investigators quickly determined that the threats originated from an 18-year-old former student. This individual was at the treatment facility when the threats were made. However, by the time deputies arrived, the suspect had already left the premises.
Authorities received information regarding potential locations where the individual might be found. Deputies and investigators spent the night actively searching for the suspect, but initial attempts to make contact were unsuccessful.
Background on School Safety
School districts often implement protocols to address potential threats, including safety hotlines and collaborations with local law enforcement. These measures are designed to ensure rapid response and protect students and staff from harm.
Given the ongoing search and the nature of the threat, Northridge Schools leaders made the decision to cancel classes for Tuesday. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution, ensuring no students or staff would be at risk while the suspect remained at large.
"In this case, you know, they made the right decision on what they needed to do," said Chief of Staff Jeremy Roy, commending the school district's proactive approach to safety.
Apprehension and Return to Normalcy
The search concluded successfully around midnight when the suspect returned to the treatment center. Deputies were able to take the 18-year-old into custody without further incident. The individual is currently being held at the Montgomery County Jail.
While the Sheriff’s Office has not yet officially named the suspect due to pending charges, jail records indicate that Thomas Harville, 18, was booked on suspicion of making a terroristic threat. It has also come to light that the suspect has reportedly made similar threats against the City of Dayton in the past, underscoring a pattern of concerning behavior.
Superintendent Addresses Northridge Community
Northridge Local Schools Superintendent Dave Jackson issued a letter to parents, providing an important update and reassuring the community. The letter highlighted the collaborative efforts that led to the swift resolution of the situation.
"Thanks to the outstanding work of our School Safety Officers and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, a suspect connected to last night’s potential threat was quickly identified and taken into custody," Superintendent Jackson wrote.
Quick Facts
- Suspect: 18-year-old former student
- Charge: Suspicion of making a terroristic threat
- Location of arrest: Treatment center
- School status: Classes resume Wednesday
Jackson confirmed that the Sheriff’s Office had verified the absence of any further threat to the schools. As a result, students and staff are welcomed back to a normal schedule on Wednesday, October 22nd.
The Superintendent expressed gratitude for the community's patience and understanding during the critical period. He emphasized the district's unwavering commitment to the safety and security of its students and staff, thanking everyone for their continued support.
Increased Security Measures for Reopening
To provide additional peace of mind, the Sheriff’s Office confirmed that extra deputies will be present on the Northridge campus when classes resume. This increased law enforcement presence aims to reassure students, staff, and parents as the community moves forward.
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of vigilance and cooperation between schools, law enforcement, and mental health facilities in addressing potential threats and ensuring community safety.