Orange Park, Florida — A school shooting threat made by a juvenile suspect on August 6, 2025, led to an immediate investigation and the arrest of 16-year-old Joseph Nicholas Barrett. The threat, which was made via a series of phone calls from a blocked number, prompted a swift response from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Clay County School Board.
According to authorities, the victim, a juvenile student at Orange Park High School, received multiple phone calls from the suspect, who eventually threatened to shoot them on the first day of school. The suspect’s ability to provide personal details about the victim raised alarm, prompting the victim to notify their family about the threat.
The victim’s mother also spoke to the suspect, who repeated the threat not only against the victim but also towards her. This led to immediate concern for the safety of both the student and their family.
What’s Happening Now:
Detectives, working in collaboration with the Clay County School Board, launched an urgent investigation into the threats. Their efforts quickly led to the identification of the suspect, Joseph Nicholas Barrett, a 16-year-old from the local area. Authorities were able to trace the phone calls and connect them to Barrett.
With the cooperation of Barrett’s family, law enforcement was able to conduct an interview with the teenager, during which he was arrested for two counts of Aggravated Stalking and one count of Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communication Device. Barrett was transported to the Juvenile Detention Center in Jacksonville without incident.
At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that Barrett had access to a firearm, and authorities believe that the incident was isolated, involving a personal conflict between Barrett and the victim. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office has stressed that there was no immediate danger to the public.
What’s Next for the Investigation:
The investigation into the threat is ongoing, and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to work with the Clay County School Board to ensure the safety of all students. While Barrett has been arrested, investigators are still gathering information to better understand the nature of the threat and the relationship between Barrett and the victim.
Given the seriousness of the charges, the case will likely go through the juvenile court system. The Sheriff’s Office has indicated that further charges or actions could be taken depending on the outcome of the investigation.
What’s Next for the Community:
This incident has raised concerns about student safety and the severity of threats made in school settings. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Clay County School Board have reiterated their commitment to the safety of all students and staff. They have emphasized that threats of violence will not be tolerated and that all such incidents will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.
The community has rallied around the victim and their family, with local leaders urging students and parents to remain vigilant and report any concerns or threats to authorities immediately. Schools in the area are expected to enhance their safety protocols and reinforce the importance of a safe learning environment for all students.
Closing:
This story is still developing, and further updates will be provided as the investigation continues. The arrest of Joseph Nicholas Barrett highlights the seriousness with which law enforcement and school authorities are taking threats of violence, and the community is now focused on ensuring the continued safety of all students at Orange Park High School and beyond.
Stay tuned for more details as the case progresses.