Ooltewah High School Receives Threat of Shooting

Ooltewah parents and community members are growing concerned after learning about a possible threat from someone saying they would, “Shoot up the school”, on Tuesday March 1st.

Parents were emailed Friday evening from Principal Jim Jarvis notifying them of a threat.

Roy Crabtree had two children attend Ooltewah High School and said he is shocked by the threat.

“Both of my daughters went to that school and we didn’t have anything like this…”

Lura Cambron, said although her son is not yet in high school the school should consider closing their doors that day.

“It’s kind of crazy that somebody would threaten to bring a gun to school period, but I think they should close. It’s not worth the risk. even with security, people are crazy and I, I just wouldn’t do it.”

The school is taking precautionary measures by adding more security on Tuesday.

Dr. Stephen Highlander said at his time serving on the Hamilton County School Board he has seen similar threats occur.

“At various schools through the years, all my years in education, there have been more bomb threats. None of them of come to fruition. A couple of times we’ve caught kids who were, in years past..simply trying to get out of class. We must treat every threat seriously absolutely we have to.”

Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office spokesman, Matt Lea ,told News 12, law enforcement is actively investigating the threat.

“At this time, we do not have any credible threats that would lead us to believe any students are in danger. However, as a precaution, we will be prepared on Tuesday to address any issues pertaining to student safety. The HCSO did investigate the threat and found there to be no credible threat at this time.”

A separate message was sent to parents and students Saturday addressing the threat and sent a strong warning to anyone who may be involved.

“…The situation is being investigated and at this time a suspect has not been identified. We take these threats seriously. and anyone involved with this type of activity will be punished to the full extent of the law.”