Police Arrested Two Central Florida Teens in Alleged School Shooting Plot

Two teens in have been arrested for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at the central Florida charter school they attend, police said.

According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, officials from The Villages Charter Middle School became aware of rumors that a student was planning a mass shooting Friday and questioned several students who said they heard the rumors.

Officials found a 13-year-old believed to be involved and questioned him. During the investigation, they discovered that a 14-year-old student could also be involved in the alleged plot.

Officers did not find any weapons on either student, but both allegedly admitted to discussing a plot and referenced the Columbine school shooting from 1999 that killed 12 students and a teacher.

Both students were arrested Thursday at their homes and charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Police found firearms in each home.

Officials from the school and police say there will be an increased security presence at the school on Friday, but they do not anticipate making any additional arrests.

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