School rocked by threat deemed safe for students to return

Friday, March 03, 2006

(3/02/06 - KTRK/CHANNELVIEW, TX) (KTRK) -- Bomb sniffing dogs were taken to Channelview High School in east Harris County after a student was found with what might be plans for a Columbine-like attack on the school.

Deputies were called to the school Thursday afternoon to arrest a student. The 16-year-old boy was suspected of stealing a camera that belonged to the school. Deputies removed the boy from his classroom and brought him to the principal's office. Investigators then began searching his backpack.

Inside the backpack, according to investigators, they found a detailed map of the school. They say the map read, "Channelview High School -- the new Columbine."

There was also a list of equipment including bulletproof vests and gas masks. Detectives say the suspect told them he had read a book over the weekend that gave him the idea.

What the boy may have planned to do is still unknown. We do not know if any other students were involved.

Stephanie Schraeder, Channelview ISD spokesperson, said, "There was information that led us to believe there was a possibility of a bomb in that student's locker. Bomb-sniffing dogs were on campus. That student's locker was searched. We have found no such items, no contraband. The campus is believed to be safe for students. The investigation is still ongoing at this time."

Students and parents were very upset after hearing the disturbing news.

"I went to rehearsals and that's when I was told that there was a bomb threat. That's what really scared me," said student Jose Villarreal.

"The guy was prepared. He had his bullet proof vest, his gas mask and that's really scary," said parent Stephanie Bullin.

School district officials say that it is safe for students and teachers to return to school Friday.

The student was moved to a Junvenile Detention Center, charged with theft. He could also possibly be charged with making terroristic threats.

This story was brought to you as part of our partnership with Houston Community Newspapers. You can read more about it in the North Channel Sentinel.
(Copyright © 2006, KTRK-TV)

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