UPDATE May 25: Two juvenile suspects were taken into custody for a false report or threat of terrorism, which is a 20-year felony and/or a $20,000. Both of the suspects are 13-year-old boys, one of whom is lodged in Ottawa County and the other in Muskegon County because of where they live.
GRAND HAVEN, Mich. - Grand Haven Department of Public Safety Officers and Ottawa County Deputies are investigating a threat against Lakeshore Middle School in Grand Haven.
A parent who discovered information about the threat called Ottawa County Central Dispatch on Wednesday night May 23, 2018, around 8:30. Police began their investigation and notified Grand Haven Public Schools.
They worked through the night to ensure the safety of students and school staff. Police were able to identify four Lakeshore Middle School students ages 13 and 14 that discussed an attack that would have occured Thursday morning May 24. The students are from Norton Shores, Ferrysburg, and Grand Haven.
The attack would have involved the students using guns against other students and teachers. After conducting interviews and searches, police investigators determined that the students did not have the ability to carry out the threat because they did not have access to weapons. Authorities say the students did identify specific students and teachers to target.
The school did remain open on Thursday but it did have a heavy police presence. Officials say they will continue to takes incidents like this very seriously.
"It's so important that we don't underreact to these types of situations. Obviously we don't want to overreact but we need to investigate every situation thoroughly," Grand Haven Police Chief Jeff Hawke, said.
School officials couldn't comment on the personal records of the students involved but tell 13 On Your Side there were no signs that would have led to this kind of behavior.
The Superintendent said with shootings happening so often, he is grateful that everyone was safe and prepared.
"You see it happen in Florida, Texas or someplace else, we all do," Grand Haven Superintendent Andy Ingall, said.
"We do know that it could happen at home, it brings home that reality. At the end of the day we're really thankful for a proactive community that demonstrated last night that we're working together."
Police say the investigation is still ongoing and once they are done the Ottawa County Prosecutor will review the case for potential charges.
The Ottawa County Sheriff Department and Grand Haven Department of Public Safety commend GHAPS staff for their professionalism and cooperation in ensuring the safety of students and staff at Lakeshore Middle School.