In a joint statement issued on Thursday evening, County Executive Elrich, Council President Friedson, Public Safety Chair Katz and Education & Culture Chair Jawando praised the combined efforts of the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in deterring a potential incident of school violence.
According to the press release, a tip from an anonymous source triggered the investigation leading to the arrest of Wootton High School Student, Alex Ye.
The release praises the source “…who should be considered a hero because they ‘saw something and said something’ and likely saved lives.”
To help allay student fears and anxieties MCPD has increased its presence at Wootton High School and other schools as warranted. The group advised families coping with anxious students to get help through the County’s Crisis Center Hotline at 240-777-4000.
According to the joint statement, “…one thing is already clear: the subject pointed to lack of access to a firearm as a key factor in preventing the individual from taking action. Maryland gun laws provide an essential barrier against individuals with a significant history of mental illness and violent ideations from obtaining firearms.”
It also reminded the public that Saturday will mark the 25th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting that took the lives of 13 and left more than 20 others injured.
