Juvenile arrested in connection with Accomack school threats; increased police presence planned Monday

A juvenile has been arrested in connection with threats of violence against Accomack County schools that circulated on social media Sunday evening, according to the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office.

Because the person arrested is a juvenile, authorities said no identifying information will be released. The Sheriff’s Office said its investigation remains ongoing.

Accomack County Public Schools notified families Sunday evening that administrators were aware of a threat of violence circulating on social media and that law enforcement was investigating.

Superintendent Dr. Miller said an increased law enforcement presence would be in place at Nandua High School and Nandua Middle School as a precaution Monday.

Earlier Sunday evening, the Sheriff’s Office said the threat had not yet been substantiated and investigators were working to determine the origin, credibility and validity of the information. The subsequent investigation resulted in the juvenile’s arrest.

The Sheriff’s Office said an increased law enforcement presence will continue at the affected schools Monday as an added precaution.

Authorities thanked students, parents, school employees and members of the community for providing information and cooperating with investigators.

The Sheriff’s Office is also asking residents not to forward or continue circulating the threatening messages and to rely on official sources for updates rather than unverified information posted on social media.

Anyone with firsthand information about the threats or information that may assist investigators can contact the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office at 757-787-1131.

ACPS previously encouraged anyone with additional information to contact the Eastern Shore 911 non-emergency number at 757-787-0911. School officials said the safety of students remains their highest priority and that families will be notified if additional updates are necessary.