Unfounded school threat in Paso Robles

On Sunday, February 24, 2019, the Paso Robles PD investigated a disturbing Snapchat post sent to several Paso Robles High School (PRHS) student’s cell phones. The Internet post contained a photo of an AR-15 rifle with the caption “Don’t go to school, there’s a school threat.” Ultimately, officers determined three PRHS students were linked to the social media post; however, any perceived threat was unfounded. Paso Robles PD officers, detectives, school officers and school officials immediately began investigating the social media post and quickly identified three high school students linked to the Snapchat post. The Snapchat post was created by a male PRHS student while playing Fortnite with two male high school friends. Officers determined the AR-15 rifle depicted in the online post was a screen shot image captured from the Internet; none of the students has access to an AR-15 rifle. The teens involved with creating the ‘Snap’ said the post was only intended to be shared amongst themselves; however, the online post quickly spread to concerned students and parents. Police interviewed all three teens and their parents and do not consider the Snapchat post to be a credible threat to Paso Robles High School students. The PRPD has been in constant contact with parents and School District officials; the PRPD will work collaboratively with all parties to hold the students accountable for their inappropriate use of social media. This is an ongoing investigation and anyone with information about this case is encouraged to call the Paso Robles Police Department at 805-237-6464. Persons wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers' 24-hour hotline at 549-STOP or by texting “SLOTIPS” plus your message” to CRIMES (274637).