13-Year-Old Charged with Terroristic Threats in Kenosha School Incident

KENOSHA, Wis. (WRJN) — A 13-year-old boy was arrested and charged with making terroristic threats after attempting to enter Roosevelt Elementary School in Kenosha with suspicious bags on Thursday, police said. No real guns were found in the incident that lead to secure holds at schools across Kenosha County.

The situation prompted a lockdown as authorities searched for the suspect. He was later arrested at his home without incident.

A search of the teen’s residence uncovered several airsoft replica handguns and a replica rifle, but no real firearms, according to police. The suspect’s mother cooperated with the investigation and explained her son does not have access to guns.

Initially claiming he went to the school to sell candy, the boy later told a social worker he intended to scare students.

Kenosha Police Chief Patrick Patton said the department had reason to believe the suspect had access to firearms based on social media videos and witness information. Those were shown during a press conference Thursday. Police say the teen’s internet activity also revealed extensive research on school shootings.

“Incidents like these remind us that our community is not exempt,” the Kenosha Police Department said in a statement. “We need to remain vigilant and be willing to say something if we see something.”

The suspect is scheduled to appear in court Friday. The investigation is ongoing.