SEMINOLE, FL – On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, detectives from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Threat Management Division arrested a Seminole Middle School student for making written threats to commit a mass shooting.
According to investigators, the 11-year-old student sent multiple photos to a classmate, displaying handguns and making threats to shoot and kill several students at the school the following day. One of the messages stated, “I’m going to kill him. All of them.”
The student was taken into custody and charged with one count of Written Threats to Commit a Mass Shooting.
Through the investigation, it was determined the 12-year-old had possession of the firearm that he retrieved from his father’s safe in a closet. According to court records, his father, 36-year-old Joshua Tardif, consented to search a small safe, which he claimed ownership of. Inside the safe, a purple powder-like substance was located in a sock, along with the two firearms., a black Glock 31 and a Ruger EC9S. The substance later tested positive for amphetamine. Arrest documentation shows that Joshua stated that he believed the substance to be MDMA or Ecstacy.
Joshua admitted to the guns in his possession and that he purchased them “on the streets.” In addition, he admitted to knowing he was a convicted felon.
Joshua Tardif was arrested on multiple charges, including:
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm (2 counts)
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
Officials reiterated their commitment to school and community safety, urging the public to report any threats. Individuals with information can contact the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office at (727) 582-6200 or submit anonymous tips through FortifyFL.
Authorities emphasize their commitment to maintaining safety in schools and the community. Anyone with information regarding threats is urged to contact the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office at (727) 582-6200 or report anonymously via FortifyFL.