12-Year-Old Charged for Threat Against Albany School

Student arrested after allegedly posting Snapchat message threatening to 'shoot up' middle school

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 12-year-old student has been charged with making a threat of violence against Stephen and Harriet Myers Middle School in Albany, New York. Police were notified about a Snapchat message that threatened to 'shoot up' the school, and after an investigation, the student was identified and arrested on Sunday. The student has been charged with making a threat of mass harm and will appear in Albany County Probation Services.

Why it matters

Threats of violence against schools are taken extremely seriously by law enforcement, as they can create fear and disruption in the community. This incident highlights the importance of students understanding the consequences of making such threats, even if they are not intended to be carried out.

The details

Officers were notified about the Snapchat message on Monday and checked the school, finding it to be safe. After an investigation, Albany police identified the 12-year-old student who allegedly made the threat and arrested them on Sunday. The student has been charged with making a threat of mass harm and was given an appearance ticket to appear in Albany County Probation Services.

  • On Monday, officers were notified about the Snapchat message threatening the school.
  • On Sunday, the 12-year-old student was arrested.

The players

Stephen and Harriet Myers Middle School

The middle school in Albany, New York that was the target of the alleged threat.

Albany Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the threat and arrested the 12-year-old student.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Albany police said they have been no additional safety threats against the school. Police also urge parents to talk to their children that any threats made will be taken seriously and investigated.”

— Albany Police Department (news10.com)

What’s next

The 12-year-old student will appear in Albany County Probation Services on Monday.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of educating students about the serious legal consequences of making threats, even if they are not intended to be carried out. Schools and law enforcement must remain vigilant in addressing any potential threats to ensure the safety of the entire community.