A 17-year-old boy was arrested Friday morning after allegedly making threats to shoot a staff member and then others at Aberdeen High School, according to an Aberdeen Police Department news release.

The Aberdeen Police Department received information about a threat being made on Friday from high school staff. Police contacted the 17-year-old at his residence in Hoquiam, where he confirmed he sent the message, claiming it was a joke, according to the release.

“It’s taken seriously, whether it’s an implied joke or not,” said APD Cmdr. Steve Timmons. “We do appreciate the person who reported this to the school, as opposed to ignoring it. We appreciate someone stepping forward.”

The teenager was arrested and transported to the Grays Harbor County Juvenile Detention Facility. The severity of the sentence will depend on prosecutor’s office and prior history, Timmons said.

“There are consequences,” Timmons said. “It’s not just a slap on the wrist.”

Contact Senior Reporter Michael S. Lockett at 757-621-1197 or mlockett@thedailyworld.com.