A 14‑year‑old boy from Rivers is facing charges after RCMP say he took part in online conversations about harming students at Rivers Collegiate. Blue Hills RCMP were alerted to the situation on March 13 after receiving information from INTERPOL about troubling messages exchanged between the Rivers teen and a 15‑year‑old in Nova Scotia. According to investigators, the conversations began in late February and included discussions about plans to hurt other students.
Police say the nature of the messages prompted an immediate response. Officers began working to identify the youth involved and assess the level of risk to the school and the community. RCMP say their priority was to ensure the safety of students and staff before the next school week began.
On the morning of March 16, officers located and stopped a school bus travelling near Provincial Road 250. The 14‑year‑old suspect was taken into custody without incident. RCMP say he was not carrying any weapons at the time of his arrest. Officers seized his phone and other electronic devices as part of the investigation.
Following the arrest, police executed search warrants at two properties connected to the teen. During those searches, officers seized additional electronic devices along with two firearms. RCMP say the guns belonged to a relative and were not in the teen’s possession during the alleged planning.
Investigators acknowledge the situation is unsettling for students, parents, and the wider Rivers community. In a statement, RCMP emphasized that they acted quickly once the information was received and that there was no indication of an immediate threat at the time of the arrest. Police say their swift response was aimed at preventing any potential harm and ensuring the safety of the school.
The 14‑year‑old has been charged with uttering threats. RCMP say the investigation is ongoing and that additional charges may be considered as officers continue to analyze the seized devices and review the online communications. Police are also working with law enforcement partners in Nova Scotia as part of the broader investigation into the conversations between the two youths.
RCMP say they will continue to maintain a presence in the community and are encouraging parents and students to reach out if they have concerns or information that may assist the investigation. Officers also noted that situations involving youth and online communication highlight the importance of monitoring digital activity and reporting suspicious behaviour.
More updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
Image – Manitoba RCMP
