DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Panic broke out in a high school cafeteria Friday, as students told a teacher someone had a gun, something that turned into a prank. But police recommended that those students be expelled and say they may face felony charges.
What You Need To Know
- Police say a panic broke out Friday after a staff member was told of a gun may be in the school
- One student allegedly ran from the cafeteria, causing alarm for students and staff
- So far, 11 students have been questioned, and anyone involved could face felony charges as well as expulsion, according to the district
- PREVIOUS STORY: ISB reopened at Clyde Morris after police investigated a false alarm at Mainland High
On Sunday, the Daytona Beach Police Department posted an update online calling the entire incident Friday at Mainland High School, "A cruel prank by several students that has now gotten out of control due to internet trolls, misinformed people and in some cases, people that are not even in Florida."
Investigators say video shows two groups of students came up with a plan to create panic on Friday.
According to police, a female student told an administrator someone had a gun. At the same time, a male student waited in place near the cafeteria exit and started running, according to police, which caused a crowd to follow him.
"The staff member who pressed the button was absolutely right, and we are thankful to that staff member for acting and not second guessing themselves," said Volusia County Schools Communications Director Angel Gomez.
Nadine Heusner is a Volusia County mother, but during the day she’s a mental health professional. In light of Friday’s chaos, she said preventing that kind of situation can start at home.
"Who are your friends, what sort of information are you coming across on social media?" she asked. "That’s really where it starts — having that ongoing conversation."
Heusner said it’s important for parents to address peer pressure with their kids.
"Sometimes, making the right decision means standing alone," she said. "This is something that I tell my own children."
District officials say the students found directly involved will face suspension, with a recommendation for expulsion. Right now, they say they have a list of at least 11 who are being investigated.
"I hate to call it a prank, because I think it goes beyond a prank," said Gomez.
Daytona Beach Police officials say felony charges are pending for making a false report concerning the use of firearms in a violent manner. Investigators are also recommending those involved be expelled from school.
Despite the situation being a false alarm, the law enforcement presence at the school was increased Monday.
Investigators also revealed graffiti found on a bathroom wall Thursday was determined not to be a threat, but students capitalized on it Friday to cause chaos.
Spectrum News 13 reporter Katie Streit contributed to this story.