2 Methuen Kids, 14, In Custody After Multiple Bomb Threats

METHUEN, MA — Two Methuen 14-year-olds are facing charges after multiple bomb threats were made on social media over the weekend, the Methuen Police Department said Monday afternoon.

The first threat was made Saturday against the Donald P. Timony Grammar School, according to police.

"This was a nonspecific threat that was determined to be uncredible and that the student had neither the means nor opportunity to carry out such a threat," police said. "This matter remains under investigation but has tentatively referred the matter to the Methuen Public Schools for appropriate disciplinary action."

On Sunday evening, police were notified of a second, "more specific bomb threat" against Methuen High School.

Both suspects have been identified as 14-year-old Methuen High School students, according to police.

The first suspect was arrested Sunday at their home and charged with threatened use of explosives causing disruption of a school, police said. That student is being held on $10,000 cash bail and is expected to be arraigned at Essex County Juvenile Court.

The second suspect is facing the same charge and will be summonsed to Essex County Juvenile Court at a later date, according to police.

After the threats were made, Methuen authorities swept the school with assistance from neighboring agencies, including explosive detection K-9 teams.

Extra school patrols were posted Monday.

"Threats made online, whether intended as a joke or a serious act, are not only alarming but are taken extremely seriously by law enforcement," Chief Scott McNamara said in a news release. "Any threat directed at schools, students, staff, or the public will be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible will face significant legal consequences."