Kona 9-year-old allegedly threatens fellow student; says he has a gun and not to come to school

Hawai‘i Island police are investigating after a 9-year-old at a Kona elementary school reportedly threatened a fellow student, telling the other child Thursday (Jan. 29) that he had a gun and to not come to school the next day.

Kona patrol officers on Thursday evening — following a report about the incident — initiated the investigation and contacted the Kealakehe Elementary School student who was reported to have made the alleged threatening statement.

Detectives with Hawai‘i Police Department Area II Juvenile Aid Section continue to investigate, working closely with school administration and the child’s family to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Investigators do not think at this time the 9-year-old has access to a firearm.

The case is being investigated as second-degree terroristic threatening.

Identities of the children involved will not be released because of their age; however, police emphasize that statements involving threats of school violence are taken seriously, no matter the age of the person(s) involved.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Officer Christopher Ross at 808-326-4646, ext. 302, or call Hawai‘i Police Department’s non-emergency line at 808-935-3311.

Those who want to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.