Full Notification

Incident:                 Threat of School Violence
Report Number:      23-4624
Occurred Date :     October 20, 2023
Location:                Petaluma High School, 201 Fair Street
 
 
 
Incident Summary:
 
On October 20, 2023, the Petaluma Police Department initiated an investigation related to written threats discovered on a bathroom wall at Petaluma High School. An unknown suspect(s) wrote in black pen, “Date: Monday 10/23/23 is the day I kill. I’m going to shoot up the school and my first person is…. So watch out Monday is your guys day.” Two students were named as initial targets in the writing. There were other writings on the wall singling out a third student, referring to them by derogatory names, and wishing death upon them. 
 
Persons of interest were developed by school administrators based upon video evidence from the areas adjacent to the bathroom and relationships to the named students. The threats are possibly related to an ongoing conflict amongst a small group of students. Both Petaluma Police officers and school administrators have conducted interviews with these students and their parents. As of Sunday, October 22, 2023, investigators have not established probable cause to make an arrest in this case. 
 
We recognize the stress and anxiety these situations create for students, parents, and community members. Both the Petaluma Police Department and Petaluma City Schools take all threats of violence in our schools seriously. We are working collaboratively to create a safe environment on campus. Tomorrow, Petaluma City School staff and Petaluma police officers will have an increased presence on and around the Petaluma High School campus.
 
Investigators are asking for help from anyone with information, especially students, to come forward to the Petaluma Police Department or a member of the Petaluma High School faculty.  Anyone with information can make an anonymous tip to the STOP It application or to the Police Department at [email protected] or by calling (707) 778-4373.
 
 
Media inquiries can be directed to Lieutenant Garrett Glaviano at (707)778-4439.