Some teens stay home after student video targets Southeast Raleigh High

Law enforcement officers were present at the school after a selfie-style video of a student holding what appears to be a firearm circulated on social media.

According to Southeast Raleigh High officials, rumors and social media posts indicated a possible threat against the school on Friday. But the posts were investigated by officers and found to be unsubstantiated, officials said.

On Monday morning, a new video circulated featuring a male student with a possible firearm. In it, the student talked about protecting his friends.

"He's serious, and I'm serious, too," the unidentified student said, shifting a cellphone to show what school officials said was a gun.

School officials said they know who the student is, and law enforcement was on campus investigating the threat.

Although classes continued normally, several families told WRAL News kept their children home as a precaution. A Wake County Public School System spokeswoman said attendance at the school was down more than normal.

School district officials said Southeast Raleigh High wasn't specifically mentioned as a target in the social media posts on Friday, so parents weren't notified. They were notified Monday morning, however.

In a letter sent to parents Monday, Interim Principal Luther Thomas thanked families for their patience.

"Law enforcement are currently on campus to investigate and ensure the safety of our students," he said. "I appreciate your patience today as we worked through our investigation. Please know that we will continue to take every measure to ensure the safety of our students."

Thomas sent a follow-up message later Monday, stating that the student didn't make any threats against the school and that police determined the firearm displayed in the video was a BB gun.

The student will face "appropriate disciplinary action," he said.

"Police believe the video this morning was in direct response to unsubstantiated threats circulated on social media over the weekend," Thomas said. "Please take this opportunity to talk to your student about not starting or sharing rumors that perpetuate fear among other students. Instead, if your student has information to share about situations that cause them concern, they should contact an administrator or other school staff directly so that we can respond quickly and appropriately to protect their safety."