Tag:

classmate

Tech

Flagler County teen accused of threatening to shoot classmates

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

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.

Pro Tip: Schools are increasingly utilizing threat assessment teams to identify and address potential risks before they escalate. These teams typically include administrators, counselors, and law enforcement officials.

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.

Do you have thoughts on school safety? Share your comments below!

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
News

On The Up: Mangonui schoolboys honoured for saving classmate in playground emergency

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Three students have been recognized for their quick thinking and bravery after a classmate experienced a medical emergency at school. The students promptly alerted staff and called for an ambulance, ensuring the classmate received immediate care and has since recovered.

Recognizing Courage and Calm

The students were awarded Courage in Action bravery awards by Hato Hone St John at their school’s end-of-year prizegiving. The presentation, held on the school field with families gathered under marquees, began with traditional karakia, waiata, and kapa haka performances.

Did You Know? Hato Hone St John receives nominations for Courage in Action awards from a wide range of sources, including community educators, ambulance crews, teachers, and family members.

Each student received a certificate, a cape, and a first aid kit as part of the award. One of the recipients, Marley, is an active cadet with the Doubtless Bay St John Youth Division. He credited his training with helping him remain calm and know what to do during the emergency, stating, “Having St John’s [Youth] training allowed me to think and not worry and know what to do. It was a good feeling to help my friend.”

Hato Hone St John’s community engagement co-ordinator for Northland, Natalie Samson, praised the students’ maturity, saying, “They showed maturity well beyond their years, showing real mana and doing exactly what was needed to get help quickly.” The parents of the student who received medical attention also expressed their gratitude, gifting the three boys with leis made of sweets.

Expert Insight: This incident highlights the critical importance of youth training programs like St. John Youth. Equipping young people with basic first aid and emergency response skills not only empowers them to help others but also fosters a sense of responsibility and community.

The Courage in Action awards are presented as part of the St John in Schools programme, recognizing children who demonstrate bravery in emergencies or positively impact the wellbeing of others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the St John in Schools programme?

As part of the St John in Schools programme, Hato Hone St John present Courage in Action bravery awards to school children who act bravely in an emergency or have a positive impact on the wellbeing of others.

How are students nominated for a Courage in Action award?

Hato Hone St John receives award nominations through the Hato Hone St John community educators, ambulance crews, and emergency call handlers, as well as teachers, family members of the child, and members of the public who were involved in the incident.

What did the students receive as part of their award?

Each boy received a certificate, a cape and a first aid kit.

How might empowering students with first aid training impact their communities in the future?

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail