8th grader detained as school officials, police investigate possible threat at Alabama school

DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) — Decatur City Schools says an 8th grader has been detained after a possible threat at Austin Junior High School.

The school system previously said that Austin Junior High School was operating under ‘heightened alert.’ According to DCS, rumors about a potential threat to the school involving the Valentine’s Day dance had caused them to begin those protocols.

DCS said that an 8th-grade student involved in the incident had been detained.

Detectives with the Violent Crimes Division were contacted and began an investigation.

According to the Decatur Police Department, after the investigation, the student was arrested and charged with first-degree making a terrorist threat. The student will be held in the Tennessee Valley Detention Center.

“The Decatur Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division will continue handling the investigation,” the system said. “The student will be afforded due process and will face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with school policies.”

A spokesperson for DPD said they had received information regarding a possible threat made by a student towards at least one other student at an upcoming school function. DPD said threats are under investigation by school resource officers and investigators with the department.

DCS said it takes these threats seriously and will provide updates as needed.

News 19 will provide updates as they become available.