This is a joint release being issued on behalf of the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office and the Boone Police Department.
On Thursday, April 27, 2023, the Watauga County emergency communications center received a report of a threat of mass violence directed at the Watauga County School System. Boone Police Department officers and Watauga County Sheriff’s Office deputies were alerted about the threat with information provided about the alleged suspect. Within minutes the suspect was located driving in Boone.
Deputies and officers conducted a vehicle stop and detained the subject under an emergency involuntary commitment process. The subject was transported to Watauga Medical center for evaluation by the crisis team and behavioral health personnel.
Investigators responded and started working to determine the facts of the case. During the initial report to the communications center very specific allegations were made. Investigators and patrol units were able to follow-up on each allegation. None of the allegations were found to be factual but investigators continue to follow-up on some technologically based information sources. The alleged suspect was evaluated by medical personnel and not deemed to be a threat to themselves or others.
Read the rest of the press release below