CORAL SPRINGS, FLORIDA–On Sunday, 18-year-old high school senior Catrina Petit appeared in court to face eight charges for allegedly creating a fake school shooting threat that went viral on social media.
As per investigators, Petit sent the message using a classmate’s school-issued computer, which read in part: “Mark the date – May 5th, 2023 Friday … I will make history as the top school slaughter.”
CSPD has arrested & charged 18-yr-old Taravella High School student, Catrina Petit, with multiple felonies for threatening to commit a school shooting. Petit sent the threat out fraudulently using another student’s name and computer access. #NotinCS pic.twitter.com/yKNLaY7wuj
— Coral Springs Police (@CoralSpringsPD) May 5, 2023
During the bond hearing, Petit’s sister and pastor spoke in her defense. However, despite their support, her bond was set at $80,000. Police reported that Petit confessed to the crime after being apprehended.
She was charged with making a false report concerning the use of firearms in a violent manner, cyberstalking, and culpable negligence.
The incident has prompted discussions about the responsible use of social media and the consequences of sharing information online.
School officials have reminded students that making any threat, even as a joke, can result in criminal charges and expulsion.
