Puyallup Teacher Arrested For Threatening To Shoot Students

PUYALLUP, WA — A school resource deputy arrested a 58-year-old geometry teacher Wednesday after she threatened to shoot students at Emerald Ridge High School, according to the Pierce County Sheriff's Department. Investigators said a case worker notified them Tuesday night after the teacher made threatening statements during a phone call. Law enforcement told school district officials, who immediately placed the woman on administrative leave.

According to investigators, the teacher did not back down from the comments when a deputy visited her home Wednesday. She was arrested and booked into Pierce County Jail on a felony threat charge. No weapons were found on the property. The Pierce County Prosector's Office said a court appearance is expected Thursday afternoon.

A spokesman for the Puyallup School District sent a statement to media just after 1:30 p.m.

"The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department is conducting an investigation of an Emerald Ridge High School staff member who made threats against students during a conversation off campus on Tuesday. The normal protocol for threats was followed including immediate notification of law enforcement. The staff member was not at school today. Making threats against the safety of students and staff is a felony crime and taken very seriously by Puyallup School District."

The principal of Emerald Ridge High School sent a letter to families after the arrest was announced Wednesday.