MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE — A 32-year-old Memphis man has been arrested after police say he confronted children at his stepdaughter’s elementary school and threatened to “shoot up the school” during an argument over alleged bullying.
Keith Burton is charged with felony threat of mass violence on school property and misdemeanor assault, according to court records from Shelby County.
Confrontation at Caldwell-Guthrie Elementary
Authorities say the incident occurred Thursday at Caldwell-Guthrie Elementary School, a public school in northern Memphis that is part of Memphis-Shelby County Schools.
According to a police report, Burton went to the school believing that students had been bullying his stepdaughter. Officers say he began arguing with multiple children on campus.
Burton allegedly yelled at the students, threw a water bottle, and warned two children, “you better not come back to school tomorrow.”
Alleged Gun Threat Escalates Situation
Police say the situation escalated when Burton pulled out a handgun and threatened to “shoot up the school.”
The school’s vice principal reported the threat to responding officers. Police quickly arrived at the scene and took Burton into custody.
According to authorities, Burton admitted to throwing the water bottle and making the threat during questioning, telling officers he was angry because his stepdaughter was being bullied.
Charges and Court Dates
Burton was booked into the Shelby County Jail and faces a felony count of threat of mass violence on school property, as well as a misdemeanor assault charge.
He was scheduled to appear in court for a bail hearing Tuesday and is set to return to court again Friday.
Court records show Burton has faced prior criminal charges, including a pending case from last September involving misdemeanor domestic assault causing bodily harm.
School Safety Concerns
The incident has heightened concerns about safety on school grounds and the seriousness of threats involving firearms.
Authorities have not reported any injuries related to the confrontation, and police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged bullying claims.
As with all criminal cases, Burton is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
For continued updates on school safety incidents and legal developments across Tennessee and beyond, stay connected with GordonRamsayClub.com.
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