Crime
57-Year-Old Monica Smith Arrested After Falsely Claiming Active Shooter at East Hampton Middle School
The threat was ultimately deemed not credible.
A false active shooter report caused a district-wide lockdown in East Hampton, Connecticut on Tuesday.
Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene after receiving a phone call around 1 p.m. claiming an active shooter at the East Hampton Middle School.
All four schools in the district were immediately placed on lockdown while authorities conducted a thorough search of the buildings.
The threat was ultimately deemed not credible.
Investigators believe the unidentified caller may have been experiencing mental health issues.
On Wednesday evening, 57-year-old Monica Smith of Lebanon was arrested and charged with making a false report, misuse of the 911 system, and breach of peace.
It’s important to note that there is a staff member at East Hampton schools named Monica Smith, but she is not the suspect.
The incident has had a significant impact on the school community.
The district’s superintendent met with parents to discuss the traumatic experience and address their concerns.
Dr. Javeed Sukhera, a psychiatrist at Hartford Hospital, emphasized the psychological toll that such threats can have on students, staff, and parents, especially in light of the frequent occurrence of school shootings in the United States.
HARRIS COUNTY, TX — A juvenile male was shot and killed in the Northwest Park area, prompting an active investigation by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
Deputies responded at approximately 2:15 p.m. to reports of a shooting at a residential complex located at 10155 Bammel North Houston Road, near North Houston Rosslyn and Fallbrook Drive.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered a juvenile Hispanic male suffering from a gunshot wound.
Despite attempts by first responders to perform CPR and lifesaving measures, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Detectives from the Homicide Division, led by Detective Jason Brown, responded to conduct the investigation.
Based on initial witness statements, deputies were able to detain a 15-year-old male suspect believed to be involved in the incident.
According to preliminary findings, investigators believe the shooting may have occurred during a possible drug-related transaction.
At this stage, no additional suspects are believed to be involved.
Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) are processing evidence, while detectives continue to review surveillance footage from the apartment complex and interview witnesses.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been formally confirmed, though authorities believe they have located potential family members.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.