Westlake, Louisiana - An investigation by the Westlake Police Department led to the arrest of a 12-year-old student who allegedly made a threat to shoot up a school bus at S. P. Arnett Middle School. The incident occurred on October 28, 2024, and was reported by a teacher who overheard the student making the threat while at school.
According to authorities, the student admitted to making the threat, which was immediately reported to the school supervisor by the teacher who heard it. The Westlake Police Department was notified, and an investigation was launched, led by Detective Michael Wright. Officer Carmen Green, the school resource officer (SRO), and Officer Hunter Matte assisted in the investigation.
The student was subsequently charged with terrorizing and menacing. The terms "terrorizing" and "menacing" are used in law enforcement to describe threats that cause fear or intimidation. In this case, the student's alleged threat to shoot up a school bus was deemed to be a serious offense.
The student was processed through the Marc Center (Multi-Agency Resource Center), a facility that provides support and resources for individuals involved in the juvenile justice system.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.