SCPD Media Release: School Threat Case 18S-01388

On Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at approximately 2:20 pm, Santa Cruz Police officers were called to Bayview Elementary School regarding a student’s aggressive behavior in the classroom. An 11-year-old male student physically acted out causing concern. Educators followed established protocol and guided students from the room to safety awaiting police arrival. The Santa Cruz Police Department arrived within minutes and detained the student who had barricaded himself in the classroom. The student was safely removed from school, and transported to a care facility.

Further investigation revealed the 5th-grade student planned to harm specific students. The student’s family is cooperating with investigators and school administrators. Santa Cruz Police recovered and secured one firearm from the child’s home.

The police department worked with school administrators to provide notification of the incident to parents and staff. This case underscores the importance of the working relationship and full cooperation between Santa Cruz City Schools and the Police. The police School Resource Officer is there to ensure the safety of students and staff in our city schools. We are thankful the situation was resolved as quickly and safely as possible, without injury to students or staff.