PA School Shooting Foiled By Authorities, 2 Teens Arrested: DA

PENNSYLVANIA — Two teenagers have been arrested in Pennsylvania after authorities reportedly foiled a school shooting attempt last week. The news comes in the wake of an increase in threats of violence in schools throughout the region, which led to numerous arrests and lockdowns in the state over the past several days.

While some of these threats were found to be baseless, the threats made toward Cambria County's Westmont Hilltop High School were very real, authorities said.

A 17-year-old from Conemaugh Township and a 16-year-old from Upper Yoder Township were deep in the planning stages of an attack, the District Attorney's Office said. Both have been charged as adults.

"Recent events, including this one, must serve as a reminder that we all should remain alert to protect ourselves and those around us," District Attorney Greg Neugebauer said. "All threats to the safety of our schools and institutions will be thoroughly and swiftly investigated, and all incidents will be taken seriously."

Officials began investigating the pair after a parent notified the school district that an "unauthorized person" had gained access to the high school. That person was one of the two teens, who had previously been expelled from the school.

Authorities said they executed a search warrant at the home of one of the teens and found five AR-15 rifles, other guns, and ammunition.

"I do believe that tragedy was prevented," Cambria County District Attorney Greg Neugebauer told WJAC 6, out of Johnstown.

Local and county law enforcement were joined by the Department of Homeland Security, ATF, FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the investigation.

Both face conspiracy to commit terrorism and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault charges. One of the teens has also been charged with possession of firearm by a minor.

The teens were booked at Cambria County prison and are awaiting their preliminary arraignment.