14-year-old brought gun to Northwood High School, threatened shooting

A 14-year-old Northwood High School student will soon faces charges after having brought a gun to school and threatened students, according to the Chatham County Sheriff's Office.

The Chatham County Sheriff's Office said the incident occurred on Wednesday.

According to deputies, the student showed the firearm to another student and threatened a school shooting.

Acting on an anonymous tip, Sheriff's deputies seized a firearm from a student and are now filling  juvenile petitions.

"Just being aware of a community and being able to communicate is really important to me and i think that’s where we’re at right now," Heather Johnson said.

Johnson is part of the parent teacher association at the school.

She commends Northwood for quickly sharing the tip with the sheriff’s office, which then seized the gun from the student's home.

"The threat is real, wherever we are. It can be anywhere, so I choose not to live in fear," Johnson said.

In a letter to families, principal Dr. Bill Walston wrote:

"In moments like this, I want to implore you to speak to your children about school safety, and the importance of telling trusted adults when you see something that seems wrong, or through the Say Something App.”

"It should have been steps with the parents before it even happened. Like why is a gun even in reach for a 14 year old," David Alston said.

Alston went to Northwood in 2010.

"At that age, we never thought about guns going to school," Alston said.

The Chatham County Superintendent reminded families that students who violate code may face consequences, including possible long-term suspension.