Former student charged with attempted murder in Collingwood school threat investigation

Attempted murder charge in school threat case Police charged a former student with attempted murder in a school threat investigation in Collingwood.

Police have upgraded charges against a young man in a Collingwood school threat investigation.

On September 11, the Collingwood and Blue Mountains Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a report about a potential threat to Collingwood Collegiate Institute (CCI) by a former student.

It was discovered that the threat was made in March 2024 and was not imminent.

However, an investigation began under the Huronia West OPP Crime Unit and later under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB).

Following the two arrests on September 11, a search warrant of an electronic device revealed additional details, indicating the plan to harm students was elaborate and well-researched.

"Thank you to everyone who provided information about this threat. Your actions have helped protect students and staff from potential harm. The upgraded charges show the magnitude and seriousness of this investigation. Though the charges have been upgraded, this investigation remains ongoing and we urge anyone with additional information to contact the OPP," said Det. Insp. Sean Chatland with the OPP’s CIB.

As a result of the investigation, the charges for a 19-year old Clearview Township resident have been upgraded to:

The accused remains in custody and is scheduled to appear on January 20 at the Ontario Court of Justice in Barrie.

Police are working with the Simcoe County District School Board and administrative staff at CCI to provide victim support.