Dispute between students prompts campus lockdown

RITZVILLE – The Lind-Ritzville High School campus was locked down Thursday morning, Jan. 27, after one student allegedly threatened another.

According to Superintendent Don Vanderholm, the lockdown began at 8:30 a.m. and lasted about 50 minutes.

A 16-year-old boy came to the school and made contact with Principal Kevin Terris, allegedly telling him he was going to “mess up” another student, Vanderholm said.

Staff members at the school were able to detain the student until law enforcement arrived.

Officers from the Ritzville Police Department, Adams County Sheriff’s Office and Washington State Patrol responded to the school.

The student was taken into custody without incident and transported to the police station, where he was released to a guardian, Vanderhold said.

According to Police Chief Dave McCormick, the suspect did not meet minimum criteria for juvenile detention, and a possible charges of harassment was referred to the Adams County juvenile administrator and the Adams County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

McCormick said an investigation into the incident revealed the two students “had words” on Wednesday, Jan. 26, in a school restroom over money.

The intended victim was in possession of a knife with a spring assisted blade, he said.

A possible charge against that student for possessing a dangerous weapon was referred to the Adams County Juvenile Administrator and the Adams County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, as well.

Both students were placed on emergency suspension from the school and school property by district administration.

The names of the two students have yet to be released.

“Staff responded professionally following training protocols,” Vanderholm said, noting there were no injuries to students or staff.