Sanford, FL – A 17-year-old student has been arrested after allegedly posting a video threatening to attack Seminole High School in Florida.
The suspect, Timothy A. Thomas, a student at Elevation High School in Sanford, was arrested on Sunday, March 10, and charged with intimidation by written or electronic threat of a mass shooting or act of terrorism, according to the Sanford Police Department.
Video Threat Leads to Arrest
Police received a tip on Saturday, March 9, about a disturbing video in which a male brandished multiple weapons, tactical vests, and other concerning items while making threats to carry out a school shooting.
Authorities quickly identified Thomas as the individual in the video. Officers located him at his home and took him into custody without incident.
During the arrest, police seized multiple weapons, later classified as realistic Airsoft replicas. It has not been confirmed whether these were the same items displayed in the viral video.
Law Enforcement Praises Quick Response
Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith credited the fast action of law enforcement in preventing a potential tragedy:
“This fast action and teamwork most likely prevented a tragedy and saved multiple lives. We are thankful for the assistance of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Gang and Habitual Offender Suppression Team (GHOST), Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, and Seminole County Public Schools.”
School Officials Emphasize Safety
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) Superintendent Serita Beamon reassured students, staff, and parents:
“The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority, and we will continue to take any potential threat seriously and act quickly.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities encourage anyone with information related to the case to contact the Sanford Police Department or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477). Calls remain anonymous.
This incident comes just weeks after a teenage girl in Indiana was arrested for allegedly planning a Valentine’s Day school massacre, which she referred to as “Parkland Part Two.”
With threats of school violence on the rise, law enforcement continues to take proactive measures to protect students and prevent potential tragedies.
