04/09/2025
‼ORANGE CITY POLICE ARREST LOCAL MAN IN CONNECTION WITH THREATS AGAINST CALIFORNIA SCHOOL‼
September 3, 2025 – The Orange City Police Department has launched a criminal investigation into threats of violence made toward a school in California, resulting in the arrest of a local suspect.
According to investigators, the case (OC250002207) began with a tip to the Los Angeles Police Department regarding disturbing online threats. The information was relayed through law enforcement partners and ultimately traced to an address in Orange City.
Police say the suspect’s social media account contained alarming statements, including self-described phrases such as “school shooter,” and posts claiming his “greatest strength” was “gunning down kids” and that his “greatest fear” was being caught by police.
Officers and detectives from the Orange City Police Department made contact with the suspect, identified as ETHAN LUTZ, 19 (D.O.B. 10/10/2005). During an interview, Lutz allegedly admitted to operating the social media account and voluntarily provided screenshots verifying the threats. Investigators confirmed that the threats were directed toward Lapaz Middle School in Salina, California.
Lutz was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Volusia County Branch Jail. Authorities confirmed with the suspect’s family that no fi****ms were present in the home. All evidence related to the case was seized.
During questioning, Lutz reportedly told investigators the threats were the result of a dare and that he considered them a joke. Police emphasized, however, that such behavior will not be treated lightly.
“The Orange City Police Department does not and will not view this type of behavior as a joking matter,” officials said in a statement. “Any threats made toward a school, its staff, or students are taken with the utmost seriousness. These incidents will be investigated to the fullest extent of the law to ensure the safety and security of our community.”
Orange City Police Department
