Morton Ranch High School student accused of terroristic threat

KATY, Texas (KTRK) -- A student at Morton Ranch High School was arrested Tuesday, accused of threatening to blow up the school, according to police.

Braeden McDaniel was arrested on accusations that he made a terroristic threat. Katy ISD police said a student allegedly overheard McDaniel talk about blowing up the school.

That student sent a text to his or her parents about the alleged threat, police say. Those parents contacted authorities.

Neighbors said McDaniel seems like a typical student and they're shocked by the allegations.

Ben Colston, who lives next to McDaniels, said he often sees the teen mowing the family's lawn. He also said McDaniel works as a lifeguard at the community pool.

"He's been very friendly," Colston said. "Seems like a normal high school kid."

A letter by the school's principal was sent to parents and staff regarding the arrest made by Katy ISD police.

The letter does not specify the threat, but principal Julie Hinson said no actions were taken by the suspect.

The principal also urged adults to make the incident a "teachable moment" to their children.

"Please confirm with them the important role they play in keeping our school safe and to report all unsafe issues to an administrator or teacher," Hinson wrote.

The letter stated, no one was physically harmed by the threat.

Katy ISD's fall semester started on August 15.

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