16 year old under arrest for making bomb threat at Nandua

According to Sheriff W. Todd Wessells, on May 2, 2025 at approximately 9:53 a.m., the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a juvenile alleging to have placed homemade explosive devices throughout Nandua High School, 26350 Lankford Highway, Onley, Virginia.

Upon deputies arrival, they immediately secured the scene until the threat could be assessed. Nandua High School officials evacuated the students and staff to a safe location prior to deputies arrival. 

K-9’s from the Virginia State Police and Norfolk Police Department, which specialize in the detection of explosive ordinances, were requested to respond. K-9’s searched the building thoroughly and no explosive devices were located. It was determined that the threat was a hoax.

The investigation has led to the arrest of a 16 y/o male juvenile. The juvenile was charged with a single count of threat to bomb or burn a building. The juvenile was transported to the Norfolk Detention Center and is being held without bond.

The Accomack County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Virginia State Police, Norfolk Police Department, Onley Police Department, Onancock Police Department, and the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. 

Accomack County Sheriff’s Office has determined this was an isolated incident and there is no further threat to the community or the Accomack County School System regarding this matter. Anyone with information on this or any other crime is asked to contact the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office at (757) 787-1131 or (757) 824-5666 or tips may be submitted through our website at accomackcountysheriffsoffice.org.