The Fredericton Police Force (FPF) and Anglophone West School District (ASD-W) wish to provide the community with an update on recent weapons-related incidents at two local high schools that have required police response. These incidents have understandably caused concern for schools, families, and the community at large.
Fredericton High School (FHS) Incidents
Thursday, November 28, 2024 -- Weapons Call Resulting in Charges
FPF officers responded within two minutes of dispatch receiving the call, apprehending a 14-year-old male and seizing an air-soft (BB) gun during the incident. The individual was taken into custody without incident and faces charges of:
• Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
• Carrying a Concealed Weapon
The youth was released on conditions and will appear in youth court at a later date.
Friday, December 6, 2024 -- Weapons Call (No Threat Present)
A FHS student received a text message from an unknown number stating a potential shooter was within the school. FPF members arrived on scene within two minutes and conducted an immediate police response (lockdown). Upon investigation, the text message was determined to be of foreign origin and not directed specifically to FHS.
Thursday, December 12, 2024 -- Weapons Call (No Threat Present)
A FHS student overheard a conversation between students indicating one was in possession of a firearm at school. The student informed FHS administration, prompting a police response. Upon investigation, no threat was found to be present.
Leo Hayes High School (LHHS) Incidents
Friday, December 13, 2024 -- Attempted School Entry with Weapons
At approximately 12:00 p.m., four youth armed with knives in a stolen vehicle attempted to access LHHS. The suspects were unable to enter due to secured doors and fled prior to police arrival. Police arrived within minutes and secured the school perimeter. Investigation revealed the youth were targeting one specific individual. Three suspects have been identified, with one remaining outstanding.
Monday, December 16, 2024 -- Social Media Threat and Arrests
At approximately 7:40 a.m., a LHHS student received threatening messages via social media targeting them and the school community. Investigation revealed the message's author was involved in the December 13 incident. FPF conducted a targeted operation resulting in the arrest of three 17-year-old males who face multiple charges, including:
Youth #1:
• Possession of a Weapon
• Uttering Threats
• Assault with a Weapon (Attempt)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Fail to Comply with Probation Order
Youth #2:
• Possession of a Weapon
• Fail to Comply with Undertaking
• Fail to Comply with Release Order
• Assault with a Weapon (Attempt)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
Youth #3:
• Possession of a Weapon
• Assault with a Weapon (Attempt)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
Two of the youth were remanded and one was released on conditions with a promise to appear in court at a later date.
"Ensuring the safety of students and school staff is our highest priority," said Deputy Chief Brian Ford. "As a law enforcement entity, it is our duty to be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding our schools from any threat, in partnership with educators, parents, and the community, to create an environment where students can learn and grow without fear."
David McTimoney, Superintendent of ASD-W, stated, "Maintaining a safe and secure learning environment is a shared responsibility, and our partnership with the Fredericton Police Force is absolutely critical in achieving that goal. Together, we work to proactively address potential threats, respond to emergencies swiftly, and provide a sense of security for both students and staff."
The District Education Support Services team continues to monitor the situations and collaborate with school administrations to provide support as needed. NBTA Teacher Counsellors and the Employee Assistance Program are available to support staff who may be impacted by these recent incidents, while School Counsellors remain available to assist students.
The Superintendent provides a “Fair Notice” letter to all families of all schools at the beginning of each school year. This letter outlines expectations when it comes to addressing threats of violence and harm at school.
The FPF and ASD-W remain committed to school safety through proactive communication and community partnership. We encourage all students, staff, and community members to continue reporting any concerning behavior to school administration or law enforcement.
The message remains clear: See something, say something -- ALWAYS.
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Sonya Gilks
Public Information Officer
Fredericton Police Force
Fpf.media@fredericton.ca
506-460-2777
Paul MacIntosh
Director of Communications
Anglophone West School District (ASD-W
Asdw.communications@nbed.nb.ca
506-444-2852
Links:
@CityFredPolice | www.facebook.com/FrederictonPolice
@VilleFredPolice| www.facebook.com/ForcePolicieredeFredericton