Man Arrested for Threatening Mass Shootings at 24 Utah Schools

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A California man is facing serious charges after allegedly making threats of mass violence against multiple elementary schools in Utah County. According to the Utah County Attorney’s Office, 48-year-old Shawn Bradley Kelsey of Sunol, California, has been charged with 24 counts of false emergency reporting, a second-degree felony.

Authorities say that on November 15, 2024, Kelsey placed calls to 24 elementary schools across Utah County, leaving alarming voicemails. In his messages, he warned school officials, saying, “You need to make somebody aware that there could be a mass school shooting.” He went on to claim that a person had been discussing “having an Uzi machine gun and killing everyone,” according to Orem Police.

The threats prompted immediate lockdowns at all 24 schools, as officials prioritized the safety of students and staff. Law enforcement quickly investigated the situation, and Kelsey was later identified as the suspect behind the hoax calls.

Stricter Penalties for School Threats

Earlier this year, Utah lawmakers passed legislation increasing the penalties for both juveniles and adults making false emergency reports or threats against schools. Under the 2024 law, adults convicted of such offenses now face second-degree felony charges, which carry a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years and fines reaching $10,000.

For students, making hoax threats can lead to severe disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion. Depending on the nature of the threat, federal charges may also apply, with offenders facing up to five years in prison under federal statutes, according to the FBI.

Authorities continue to stress the dangers of false emergency reports, warning that these hoaxes divert valuable law enforcement resources and create unnecessary panic in communities.

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