Mariner Middle School student arrested for school threat at Mariner High

Mariner High School. (Google Maps photo)

A Mariner Middle School student has been arrested after a social media post threatening Mariner High School circulated on Tuesday night.

The Cape Coral Police Department said there were multiple reports from students and parents due to a Snapchat photo that referenced Mariner High School “getting shot up” on Wednesday.

Police arrested a 14-year-old girl, who they say denied the accusations but later admitted the Snapchat account belonged to her.

“The investigation revealed that (the student) changed her accounts of what occurred several times and was unable to dispel detectives’ fears that she wouldn’t carry out those specific threats,” Cape Coral police said in a news release.

Mariner High School Principal Thomas Michel sent a message to the campus community on Tuesday about a social media post, but did not disclose what was in it.

“I have personally just inspected all the school’s restrooms and can assure you the photo was not taken in one of our restrooms and there is no writing on any of the walls in our restrooms,” Michel said.

On Wednesday morning, there was a heavy police presence at Mariner High School.

Michel told the campus community the threat originated from a middle school student, “who I have been informed has been arrested.”

“At no time were any MHS students and staff in danger and I can assure you that safety is a number one priority on this campus,” Michel said. “It’s unfortunate that even with a clear message from Law enforcement and the School District Code of Conduct clearly stating students will be held accountable for these kinds of posts it still happens.”

Mariner Middle School also released a statement to parents that reads:

Dear Parents and Guardians:

You have likely seen some concerning information on social media and the news about posted threats of violence against Mariner High School.

I want you all to know that your students are safe. The Cape Coral Police Department, Mariner High School, and Mariner Middle School take these types of postings very seriously. CCPD initiated an investigation immediately upon receipt of the social media posting, and a Mariner Middle School student was arrested last night in relation to the posted threat.

Everyone is entitled to due process when accused of a crime, so we cannot comment on the ongoing investigation at this point.

I want to thank our partners with the Cape Coral Police Department as well as my own staff. They worked very hard last night and this morning to ensure the safety of our campus.

Thank you all for the confidence you place in us for keeping your students safe, and thank you for your partnership in the education of our kids.

Warm Regards,

Dr. Clark

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