Student from Twentynine Palms arrested after suspected planned school attack

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) - A student from Twentynine Palms was arrested on Friday on suspicion of planning an attack at schools within the Morongo Basin, police announced.

The student, a 17-year-old boy, was booked into San Bernardino County Juvenile Hall for PC 422.3(a), Criminal Threats Against Public or Communal Locations.

Authorities said the investigation began on Friday, Oct. 16, when School Resource Officer Deputy A. Stumbo received information regarding a potential threat to school staff and students at undisclosed schools. 

Deputy Stumbo initiated investigative measures to assess the potential threat and identify the individual involved.

"Through investigation, Deputy Stumbo developed sufficient information to obtain multiple search warrants, including a warrant for the juvenile's residence, in the unincorporated area of Twentynine Palms," reads a news release by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.

The teen was arrested on Friday without incident.

"Investigators from the Morongo Basin Station, assisted by personnel from the Specialized Enforcement Division, Bombs and Arson Division, served a search warrant at the juvenile's residence and recovered evidence indicating the juvenile may have been planning an attack on local schools and staff," the agency wrote.

The Sheriff’s Department takes all threats involving schools and the safety of students and staff with the utmost priority.  This investigation illustrates the significance of law enforcement acting swiftly on credible information, utilizing available investigative resources, and working collaboratively to identify and address potential threats, especially within our school system.  The Department encourages community members if they "See Something, Say Something."  Early reporting and coordinated investigative efforts are essential to protecting our youth and staff members, and preventing potential tragedies within schools.

-San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department

Anyone with information regarding this or other related types of incidents, is urged to contact the Morongo Basin Station at (760) 366 -4175. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may submit a We-Tip at https://mobile.catapultems.com/sbcsd/Sites or text “REPORT” to (844) 909-3006.