15-year-old Hilo boy arrested for allegedly threatening several schools online

HAWAII ISLAND (HawaiiNewsNow) – A 15-year-old Hilo boy was arrested Wednesday for allegedly making online threats against several schools in the Hilo and Puna area, Hawaii Island police said.

According to police, there were several posts on social media indicating that members of a “notorious gang” were on the island and may have planned to visit a Hilo school on Thursday.

Although no direct threats were reported, HPD said the posts prompted parents at several schools to contact police after learning about the posts.

As a precautionary measure, officers were on hand during the drive to school on Thursday morning.

Investigators found the 15-year-old high school student responsible for the online posts and arrested him when he arrived at the school.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Corina McLellan of the Area I Child Services Division at (808) 961-2276 or via email at [email protected] or the police non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311.

Copyright 2024 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.