State High to have enhanced security after planned school shooting revealed

State College Area High School will have an enhanced police presence and security measures on Monday “out of caution” following the Friday arrest of a man who allegedly planned a shooting at the school.

State College Area School District Superintendent Curtis Johnson sent an emailed update to families on Sunday, emphasizing that schools remain safe and that law enforcement has found no active threat against any schools.

“We understand that many of you are seeking more information about what occurred, and your feelings and questions are valid,” Johnson wrote. “At the same time, we are limited in what we can say. Because the police investigation is ongoing, we must prioritize and support it by respecting confidentiality and only sharing appropriate details.”

In addition to an increased police presence at the State High campus, metal detectors will be placed at the entrances of the State High and Delta buildings, Johnson wrote. Counselors will also be available for students who need someone to talk to.

Braeden Phillips, a 20-year-old man who lives in Milroy and previously lived in State College, was arrested Friday on charges of conspiracy to commit murder and for carrying a handgun without a license.

According to the criminal complaint, Phillips planned to execute a school shooting around 8:40 a.m. on Monday, April 21, a day after the 26th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre. The event was to take place near the high school’s main staircase, and “bombs” were to be placed inside the school bathrooms, according to the criminal complaint.

Police said they were also informed a “hit list,” a term used to identify individuals to be attacked or killed, was also already made. Another juvenile was potentially involved, according to the criminal complaint, and police said the investigation is ongoing.

At a preliminary arraignment Saturday, District Judge Casey McClain ruled Phillips was an “extreme danger to the community” and denied bail.

The investigation into Philips began when a resident under the umbrella of the Centre Youth Service Bureau told staff there of the plans, and the staff in turn called police. Both State College police and SCASD expressed gratitude to the person for stepping forward and speaking out.

“We are profoundly grateful to this individual for their courage, and we encourage everyone to follow their example in the future,” Johnson wrote.

Anyone with information is asked to contact State College police at 814-234-7150, by email or submitting an anonymous tip through the department’s website.