A Pryor Middle School student now faces felony charges after falsely claiming to have a gun while reportedly setting off fireworks in a school hallway, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday.
- The student is charged with felony false reporting of a firearm and disturbing a school function. Several other students involved in the Feb. 27 incident face misdemeanor charges of disturbing a school function.
According to deputies, the male student interrupted school activities by reportedly detonating a firework while stating, “I have a gun,” and reaching into his backpack. The actions caused fear among nearby students. Deputies discovered additional fireworks inside the student’s backpack.
Sheriff Eric Aden and School Superintendent Marcus Chambers emphasized the importance of parents and guardians understanding the serious consequences students will face for any threat involving school safety.
- “The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority,” Chambers said in a statement. “I commend the quick and decisive actions of Principal McClelland, the Pryor Middle School staff, and our Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office partners in addressing today’s incident.”
Chambers noted that while there was no actual threat, behavior that disrupts learning and causes fear “will be taken seriously and met with swift action.”
The superintendent urged parents to help reinforce the importance of responsible choices and encouraged students to report concerning behavior to school resource officers, administrators or staff.
“Together, we will continue working to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for every student in Okaloosa County,” Chambers stated.
