A 15-year-old teenager accused of firing multiple shots outside Mariner High School in Everett on Monday was released on bail less than 24 hours after the arrest.
On Monday, the high school went on lockdown around 3:10 p.m. after several shots were reported in the parking lot. Those in the building for after-school activities or sports were put on a lockdown.
According to the police, the teen allegedly fired multiple shots at a vehicle with two juveniles inside before fleeing the scene. Fortunately, the two juveniles were not injured. The victims had reportedly fled in the vehicle during the shooting. Deputies located the victims on Monday but were said to be uncooperative. They were released afterward, according to the sheriff's office. The vehicle, which had a bullet hole, was seized pending a search warrant.
Snohomish County Sheriff's Office were able to locate the teen the following day, before 6 p.m., in the 2300 block of 119 Street Southwest, about a mile and a half from the high school. He was sent to Denny Juvenile Justice Center, where he was booked for unlawful possession of a firearm, disturbing school activity and possession of a dangerous weapon on school property.
The suspect reportedly had his initial court appearance on Wednesday and his bail was set at $250 cash or $2,500 bondable. He posted bail and was released, leaving a county sheriff "discouraged."
"I am very proud of the quick response and thorough investigative work done by our deputies," said Sheriff Adam Fortney. "Public safety remains our top priority and the youngest members of our community deserve to always be safe at school. I am discouraged to learn the suspect was released in less than 24 hours without an ankle monitor or any additional layer of accountability and protection for our community."
Meanwhile, in early June, another teenager was arrested in Snohomish County for allegedly making threats against Edmonds-Woodway High School. According to Edmonds police, the 16-year-old student was booked in juvenile jail on suspicion of felony harassment. They also confirmed the recovery of a realistic-looking BB gun.
Many other students around Puget Sound, including in Kirkland and Tacoma, have been previously arrested and accused of making threats to their schools. Law enforcement firmly warns that even as a joke, these threats could lead to felony charges if convicted.
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