Full Notification

For Immediate Release
October 5, 2017
 
Contacts:     Sergeant Tim Zins, PIO, (310) 802-5186     
Officer Kristie Colombo, PIO, (310) 802-5184   
                                     
Date of Incident:   Wednesday, October 4, 2017 
 
Subject:  Mira Costa High School Students Arrested for Criminal Threats             

Location:  Manhattan Beach, CA, 90266

On Tuesday, October 3, 2017, the Manhattan Beach Police Department was made aware of possible criminal threats made by two Mira Costa High School students.  MBPD patrol officers, MBPD Detectives and School Resource Officers immediately began to investigate these threats which were directed towards other students.  Investigators were working to identify the students who made the threats. 
 
On Wednesday, October 4, 2017, investigators had identified these students and responded to Mira Costa to contact them.  While the investigators were at the school, a call was placed to our dispatch center of a possible active shooter on the campus.  MBPD patrol officers quickly responded to assist the investigators who were already at the school.  It was determined the threat of an active shooter was unfounded and based on rumors.  The investigation continued into the original threats and the investigators contacted the two students on campus.  Based on the investigation, the students were arrested and transported to MBPD.  Both suspects are 17 years old, residents of Manhattan Beach and are still in custody.
 
Upon interviewing the two suspects, detectives served search warrants at both of their homes.  Investigators located substantial evidence (however no weapons) at one of the homes which led them to believe there was a significant credible threat.  Investigators believe a dangerous incident has been averted due to the arrest of these suspects.     
 
If you or your family has any information in regard to criminal threats made at Mira Costa High School, you are asked to call Detective Aleina Smith at (310) 802-5133 or the Manhattan Beach Police Department Tip Line at (310) 802-5171.