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13-year-old arrested in Clay County after saying he wants to go on ‘purge killing spree’ following break-up

Lake Asbury 8th grader admitted to sending messages, but said he didn’t mean them

Clay County Sheriff's Office (WJXT, Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.)

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – A 13-year-old boy was arrested Monday after the Clay County Sheriff’s Office said investigators found text messages stating he wanted to go on a “purge killing spree” centered around his ex-girlfriend and her friends.

According to deputies, the Lake Asbury Junior High School student sent the threatening text messages to another student on Sunday.

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“Due to the detailed nature of his threats, where [the student] identified specific intent, identified specific potential victims, and harbored a perceived grievance, CCSO conducted a full investigation,” the Clay County Sheriff’s Office said.

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The CCSO investigation included searching the student‘s bedroom at home, interviewing all involved parties and family members, and seizing the student’s phone for a “forensic download.

During the investigation, the student told deputies that he didn’t intend to carry out the threats and that he was “upset over the breakup with his ex-girlfriend.”

Upon the investigation’s completion, the 13-year-old was arrested on a second-degree felony charge and taken to the Duval Detention Center.

“I have zero tolerance for school threats,” Sheriff Michelle Cook said. “Parents, please speak with your child about the consequences of making such statements.”