Man held over online threats to kill 200

A British man has been arrested on suspicion of making threats to kill 200 people leading to schools in America beefing up security.

The 24-year-old from South Shields, South Tyneside, was in custody after apparently posting a message on Facebook two days ago.

Reports say the post was made anonymously on an online memorial page.

That led schools in Warren County, Tennessee, to tighten security, with limited access to premises. Reports say around 3,000 pupils were absent from school the next day.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “At 2.12pm today police received notification that a man had posted threatening information on Facebook.

“A 24-year-old man from South Shields has been arrested on suspicion of threats to kill and is currently in custody.”

“There is nothing to suggest he posed any physical threats to any schools either here or in America.

“We are currently seeking advice as to who has jurisdiction in this incident.”

A local Sky channel quoted the message: “My father has three guns. I’m planning on killing him first and putting him in a dumpster.

“Then I’m taking the motor and going in fast.

“I’m gonna kill hopefully at least 200 before I kill myself.”