School Safety Concerns Rise in Flagler County
A 14-year-old student at Matanzas High School in Flagler County, Florida, has been arrested and charged with making written or electronic threats to kill or do bodily injury to two classmates, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. The incident, which unfolded after an argument over Snapchat, highlights a growing trend of online threats impacting school safety.
Snapchat as a Platform for Threats
The alleged threats involved a video sent via Snapchat, depicting the suspect holding a firearm and threatening violence against the two victims. This case underscores the role of social media platforms in facilitating and escalating conflicts that can spill over into real-world harm. Deputies reported the initial dispute began when the suspect used an inappropriate name towards a female student.
Recent Incidents in Flagler County
What we have is not an isolated incident in Flagler County. In September 2025, a 15-year-old student at Flagler Palm Coast High School was arrested after allegedly bringing a gun to school and pointing it at another student at a McDonald’s restaurant. This prior case involved a 9mm pistol found in the suspect’s bedroom.
Broader Trends in School Threats
Nationally, schools are grappling with an increase in threats, many originating online. While specific statistics are not provided in the available sources, the frequency of these incidents raises concerns about student mental health, access to firearms, and the effectiveness of current safety measures. In February 2026, two middle school students in Flagler County were arrested for separate threats against Indian Trails Middle School, further illustrating this trend.
Legal Ramifications
The 14-year-old suspect faces charges related to electronic threats, demonstrating that law enforcement is taking these incidents seriously. The charges reflect a growing legal focus on holding individuals accountable for online behavior that poses a threat to others.
FAQ
- What charges does the 14-year-old face? Written or electronic threats to kill or do bodily injury.
- Where did the threats originate? The threats were made via Snapchat.
- What school is involved in the most recent incident? Matanzas High School.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
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