Tarpon Springs Middle School Student Arrested for Written Threats to Commit a Mass Shooting (25-020)

TARPON SPRINGS – On February 17, 2025, detectives assigned to the Threat Management Division arrested a Tarpon Springs Middle School student for Written Threats to Kill or Conduct a Mass Shooting.

Detectives say 11-year-old Justin Lamanna was in a group chat with two other students when he sent a photo of himself wearing a ski mask and tactical vest with a message that stated he was about to go to 8th period. He also sent a video to the group chat of him holding and pointing what appeared to be a shotgun while stating “this how we going to light them up like the Fourth of July boys” and other profanities.

Detectives made contact with Lamanna, who admitted to sending the video, photos, and messages but insisted it was a joke. Lamanna was arrested and charged with one count of Written Threats to Commit a Mass Shooting.  

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to keeping our schools, our children, and our community safe. Anyone with information on any threats is asked to notify the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office immediately at (727) 582-6200 or via https://getfortifyfl.com/

Summary: 

Justin Lamanna (Suspect – Arrested)
DOB: 07/14/2013
Charge: Written Threats to Kill or Conduct a Mass Shooting