A man has been charged with sending threatening emails to several schools in the Charlotte area, prompting immediate action from authorities to ensure the safety of students and staff. According to Mecklenburg County court documents, Drew “David” Andres Owens allegedly communicated specific threats of mass shootings at multiple educational institutions, including West Charlotte High School, Ardrey Kell High School, Community House Middle School, and Hawk Ridge Elementary School. The emails reportedly threatened to kill both students and staff, with planned attacks occurring in late February or early March 2025.
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The Threats and Specific Details of the Attack Plans
The threatening emails outlined specific targets, with one email singling out West Charlotte High School and mentioning a staff member named “Darryl,” along with other students. Additional emails detailed plans for mass shootings at the other schools, with similar alarming details. Owens allegedly indicated his intent to carry out these attacks and confirmed the specific dates of the planned violence. Court records show that Drew Owens’ father, Darryl Owens, is the ROTC instructor at West Charlotte High School and was able to identify his son as the person behind the threats.
Motive Behind the Threats
According to the documents, Darryl Owens believes that the threats are in retaliation for Drew Owens being kicked out of the house in 2021. Since that incident, Drew Owens has been accused of harassing family members, neighbors, and others with threatening messages. He reportedly sent several threatening letters and emails, and his behavior escalated over time. Authorities note that Drew Owens had been observed sitting outside neighbors’ homes, watching them, and even going to his father’s workplace to take pictures of his car, which he later sent to Darryl Owens in an attempt to provoke him.
Immediate Response from School Authorities
Following the threats, school officials at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) took swift action to ensure the safety of everyone involved. A statement released by CMS assured parents and the community that the district was aware of the threats and had taken necessary precautions. The district emphasized its commitment to working closely with law enforcement and following their guidance throughout the investigation. Additionally, CMS reinforced the seriousness of threats and reminded students and families of the importance of reporting any potential dangers to authorities or trusted adults.
Legal Consequences and Investigation
Drew Owens faces multiple charges related to threatening mass violence on educational property. The investigation is ongoing, and he is scheduled to appear in court in early March 2025. Law enforcement and school officials continue to monitor the situation and work together to ensure the safety of all those in the Charlotte area.
The investigation highlights the growing importance of school safety and the need for proactive measures in addressing and preventing potential threats to educational environments. Authorities urge anyone with information to report threats immediately, ensuring that similar incidents are addressed swiftly and effectively.