ORANGE PARK, FL — On August 7, 2025, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Brandon Judd, announced the arrest of 16-year-old Joseph Nicholas Barrett following a swift and thorough investigation into a disturbing school shooting threat directed at a student of Orange Park High School. The investigation involved close collaboration with Superintendent Dr. Craig Runcie and the Clay County School Board, underscoring the commitment of local authorities to ensuring student safety.
The investigation was triggered on August 6 when deputies received reports that an unknown individual had repeatedly called a juvenile victim from a blocked number. The suspect escalated the calls with explicit threats, promising to shoot the victim on the first day of school at Orange Park High School. The suspect’s knowledge of personal details about the victim raised alarm, prompting the victim to inform their family immediately.
Taking action, the victim’s mother directly contacted the suspect, only to receive repeated threats aimed not just at her child but at herself as well, intensifying the seriousness of the situation. In response, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, working closely with the Clay County School Board, launched an immediate investigation to identify and locate the suspect.
After careful investigative efforts, officials identified the suspect as Joseph Nicholas Barrett, age 16. With cooperation from Barrett’s family, law enforcement conducted an interview, leading to his arrest on charges of two counts of Aggravated Stalking and one count of Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communication Device. Authorities confirmed there was no evidence Barrett had access to a firearm, and they believe this incident was isolated between Barrett and the victim.
Barrett was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Juvenile Detention Center in Jacksonville to await further legal proceedings.
Both the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Clay County School Board reaffirm their unwavering commitment to student safety. They emphasized that any threats of violence are treated with the utmost seriousness and will be met with decisive law enforcement action. A spokesperson stated, “Our schools are places of learning and growth that must remain safe and free from fear.”
Officials encourage students, parents, school staff, and community members to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious behavior or threats. Reports can be made by calling 9-1-1 in emergencies, the non-emergency line at (904) 264-6512, or anonymously through the SaferWatch app.
This case highlights the importance of communication, cooperation, and swift action in preventing violence and protecting Clay County’s youth. The community is urged to remain vigilant and support local authorities in maintaining a safe environment for all students.
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