ICYMI: Why Was the Parkland School Shooter’s Brother Trespassing at Schools in Virginia?
Zachary Cruz, brother of the Parkland mass shooter, was arrested for trespassing at three Virginia schools. 🌐 #News #FishersvilleVA #Virginia #Crime
FISHERSVILLE, VA – The younger brother of the notorious Parkland mass shooter has been arrested, sparking concern in a Virginia community. Zachary P. Cruz, 24, was taken into custody after allegedly trespassing at three schools within the Augusta County school system, authorities confirmed.
Cruz’s older brother, Nikolas Cruz, is responsible for the deadliest high school shooting in U.S. history. On Feb. 14, 2018, Nikolas Cruz killed 17 people and injured 17 others at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.
Caught on Camera Trying to Enter Schools
The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office reported that on Jan. 25, Cruz was seen on the grounds of the Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center Complex at approximately 11:30 p.m. Surveillance footage from Augusta County Public Schools later revealed Cruz had ventured onto the properties of Wilson Middle School, Wilson High School, and the Valley Career and Technical Center after school hours.
“The footage shows Mr. Cruz approaching exterior doors, attempting to open them, and peering inside, indicating efforts to gain unauthorized access,” the sheriff’s office said.
Authorities launched an investigation involving the Woodrow Wilson Police Department and Virginia State Police before arresting Cruz on Feb. 4. He now faces three misdemeanor charges of trespassing.
Livestreamed Video Causes Alarm
The situation intensified on Thursday when a video, reportedly live-streamed by Zachary Cruz’s attorney, surfaced on social media.
Parents in the Augusta school district were alarmed by the footage, which appeared to show multiple school locations within the Wilson School complex.
Sheriff Donald L. Smith addressed the public to calm fears. “I want to assure the public that this video, which was live-streamed by Cruz’s attorney and later posted on social media, did not involve Cruz physically being present at any of the county school properties,” Smith explained.
He noted that Cruz remained incarcerated at the time the video was recorded, though he was released later that day.
Authorities Promise Increased Security
Acknowledging the community’s concerns, Sheriff Smith emphasized that law enforcement is taking proactive steps.
“I understand how troubling this situation has been for you, your families, and our community. The safety and security of all students, staff, and community members are our top priorities. I want to assure you this matter is being taken very seriously,” he said.
Smith also confirmed that the sheriff’s office, state police, and school officials have increased security measures.
“Heightened security measures include an increased law enforcement presence on and around school grounds,” Smith said.
“We encourage parents, students, and staff to remain alert and report any suspicious activity,” Smith added.
“The collective effort of law enforcement, school officials, and the community is essential to maintaining a safe environment for everyone.”
Authorities are closely monitoring for any potential threats and are maintaining constant communication with school officials to ensure the safety of students and staff.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Florida | Virginia
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