BY IVAN SANDERS

CITY OF ELIZABETHTON PIO

A 14-year-old TA Dugger Jr. High student was arrested and charged with threatening mass violence at a school and possessing a weapon (knife) on school grounds.

The investigation and arrest of the suspect began due to vandalism discovered Wednesday in one of the girl’s bathrooms at the school, revealing inappropriate and disturbing language.

After the statements were discovered, school administrators, along with Elizabethton police, began intensively investigating the threats associated with the vandalism.

At no time during the investigation were there any immediate threats or dangers to students or school staff.

School officials said parents and guardians will be notified immediately via a messenger call from the school or district office if the investigation reveals additional information that requires additional security measures.

The school system stated, “As always, we are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Elizabethton Police Department and their unwavering commitment to the safety of our students and staff.”