FREDERICKSBURG, Va. - Classes began as usual on Monday at Riverbend High School in Fredericksburg, but two students were notably absent.
Two weeks ago, a 17-year-old student was arrested for allegedly sending a threat to shoot up the Spotsylvania County school via text message. A 15-year-old accomplice was charged during a subsequent investigation.
"I don't know, like I heard about it yesterday while I was watching TV," said Kenny Francis, a junior at Riverbend. "It's just kind of funny how close you can come to dying and not even know about it."
Officials are not discussing what may have motivated the threat to harm students and staff, but say there was no imminent danger.
"I think what's important is that when we talk about 'see something, say something' especially something as grave as a potential mass shooting at a school, that kids who see this stuff on social media, kids do something," said Deputy Commonwealth's Attorney Matt Lowery. "Suffice to say that it's not a joke."
The 15-year-old made his first court appearance Monday morning, represented by Attorney Jonathan David. The older teen has a court date later this week.
The teens are facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder. Both may be tried as adults.