A 13-year-old boy was arrested in Kenosha, Wisconsin, after trying to enter Roosevelt Elementary School with a rifle. The incident occurred Thursday morning when the teenager, a Mahone Middle School student, was stopped by school staff at the secure entryway. After being confronted, the boy fled, prompting a swift police response.
Authorities later revealed the teenager carried a bag containing the rifle, triggering an immediate investigation. Earlier that day, video footage showed him brandishing what appeared to be a firearm.
Kenosha Police Chief Patrick Patton emphasized that quick actions by school staff and police prevented a tragedy. “We are fortunate this situation ended without violence,” Patton said. “The rapid response from school officials and law enforcement averted a potentially devastating event.”
Heroic Actions by School Staff Prevent Tragedy
School staff stopped the boy at the secure entryway, preventing him from entering the building. The entry had two doors: one leading to the office and another to the school. The boy reached the first door but was intercepted before gaining further access. Nervous, he fled the scene.
“These staff members acted decisively,” said Kenosha Superintendent Jeffrey Weiss. “Their quick thinking likely prevented an unimaginable tragedy.”
The boy attempted to access the school through multiple locked doors before being stopped. Superintendent Weiss commended the staff’s actions, calling them heroic despite the uncertainty of the moment.
Investigation Uncovers Troubling Signs
Police arrested the teenager on the 6700 block of 30th Avenue. Authorities confirmed he had no legitimate reason to be at the school. The investigation revealed troubling evidence, including internet searches related to school shootings and disturbing statements made to other students.
A video obtained by police showed the teenager practicing techniques for entering rooms, suggesting he planned an attack. “This is behavior we should have noticed earlier,” Chief Patton said. “There were warning signs, including online searches and concerning statements. We narrowly avoided a tragedy.”
District Implements Secure Hold, Community Responds
The Kenosha Unified School District placed all schools on a district-wide “secure hold” during the search for the boy. No one was allowed to enter or leave buildings until the secure hold was lifted around 2:40 p.m. Students were dismissed as usual afterward.
Police also investigated a report of a shooter at Gateway Technical College, which was determined to be a misunderstanding. Local law enforcement, including the Kenosha Police Department, collaborated to ensure student safety during the search.
Frank Elementary School canceled afternoon 4K classes for safety reasons. A statement assured parents that measures were in place to protect students while law enforcement resolved the situation.
Community Praises Swift Actions
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jill Underly praised school staff for preventing a potential shooting. “Their swift response kept students safe and prevented harm. I am incredibly grateful for their actions,” she said.
Chief Patton urged the community to stay vigilant and report warning signs to prevent future incidents. “Today, we were fortunate, but we must remain proactive in protecting our schools,” he said.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and preparedness in ensuring school safety. Thanks to quick actions by school staff and law enforcement, a tragic event was averted.
