Police investigate after students threaten to ‘shoot up’ Rexburg school
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REXBURG — The Rexburg Police Department is investigating after a group of students at Madison Junior High School made threats to “shoot up the school.”
During a news conference Monday afternoon, Rexburg Police Chief Shane Turman said six boys were involved in the threats, which were made while playing online video games in late February and early March.
Police were made aware of the threats Friday and were able to find the boys involved, aided in part by reviewing surveillance footage at the school over the weekend, to see other students the boys associated with.
“These comments were made in extremely poor taste and in bad judgment,” Turman said. “The kids made the comments after losing an online game and we take it very serious.”
Turman said police met with parents and found none of the students had weapons in their home.
Madison School District Assistant Superintendent Randy Lords said school leaders have also been investigating the incident.
“Our main goal is to make sure students and staff are protected and able to learn,” Lords said.
The Rexburg city prosecutor is determining whether criminal charges should be filed.