URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — A 17-year-old Urbana High School student was arrested Wednesday, September 17, after allegedly making a verbal threat to carry out a school shooting. Authorities say the statement was overheard by school staff and quickly reported to police.
According to a release from the Urbana Police Department, the threat stemmed from a confrontation with other students and was not made on school grounds. Officers were immediately dispatched and located the student the same day.
With the consent of the juvenile’s guardian, officers conducted a search of the student’s residence, which turned up no weapons. Investigators confirmed that no firearms were ever present at Urbana High School during the incident.
Police say the department worked closely with Urbana School District officials to assess the situation and ensure the safety of students and staff.
The teen was taken into custody, and while specific charges have not been publicly disclosed, the investigation is ongoing. Due to the suspect’s age, no identifying information has been released.
“The Urbana Police Department takes all threats to school safety seriously,” the statement read. “We remain committed to working with our school partners to maintain a safe learning environment for all students.”
Authorities remind the public that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Anyone with further information about the incident is encouraged to contact Urbana Police at 217-384-2320. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can submit tips to Crime Stoppers by calling 217-373-TIPS (8477), visiting 373tips.com, or using the P3 Tips mobile app.
