5th-Grader Threatens Elementary School In Grand Junction: Cops

GRAND JUNCTION, CO -- A fifth grader at Mesa View Elementary School was arrested Wednesday and released to his parents after making statements that he would bring a gun to school and shoot people, Grand Junction Police said.

"The students to whom the comments were directed were understandably frightened and immediately did the right thing; they told a teacher," a police statement said.

No weapon was found and the boy was charged with misdemeanor menacing.

Earlier in the week, two male high school students age 15 and 16, were overheard by other students threatening to bring guns to Caprock Academy in Grand Junction. They were arrested and released to their parents.

Grand Junction police asked residents to talk to their children and make sure not to spread "social media rumors," according to a statement.

Emotions are understandably high right now. Please have a conversation with your kids about the events of the past week, and provide age appropriate context to reassure them. We are unwavering in our commitment to investigate all safety concerns that are reported to us, and we will take appropriate measures to maintain a peaceful, productive environment for students and school staff. We urge you to refrain from perpetuating social media rumors, and instead to report any potential threats directly to local law enforcement or via Safe2Tell.

Safe2Tell is an anonymous tip-line for school safety instituted statewide after the recommendations of the Columbine Commission.

The Mesa Valley School District 51 also issued a statement on social media, worrying that new safety procedures were turning the schools into a "churning rumor mill."

"If a student mentions that he or she is feeling fearful and wants to discuss school safety, please refer to these talking points to help guide your conversation. These are also available at www.d51schools.org," the district posted in English and Spanish Wednesday night.
"In all cases, we urge the community to report immediate concerns to Safe2Tell, rather than perpetuating rumors on social media. Our District 51 security team and partners at local law enforcement work relentlessly, around the clock, to investigate every report, and to ensure continued school safety."

Image via Shutterstock