'Active Shooter' At Maplewood School Turned Out To Be Fireworks; Teen Charged: Police

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — A report of an active shooter at Columbia High School in Maplewood earlier this month turned out to be a false alarm, but not entirely, police said.

The Maplewood police said that a student was apprehended on Friday, May 5, at Columbia High School for setting off fireworks in the school building. He was charged with three offenses.

Police said that at approximately 2:22 p.m., police responded to reports of the possible shooter.

Police said, "Officers on scene were quickly able to determine that there was no active shooter threat to the school, but a student had set off fireworks inside the school building. After investigation by Maplewood Youth Aid Bureau Detectives and assistance from school administration, a 15-year-old student involved in the incident was identified and charged."

The minor was charged with false public alarm, disorderly conduct, and possession of fireworks.

He was processed at police headquarters and brought to the Essex County Youth House.

No one was injured.

Are Fireworks Legal In New Jersey?

According to state law: "It is unlawful to sell, offer for sale, possess, or use fireworks anywhere in the state without a valid permit. However, recent changes to the law now permit persons 16 years of age or older to lawfully buy, possess and use certain sparkling devices and novelties."