Cocoa Beach, FL – September 23, 2024
Suspect Arrested in Cocoa Beach Junior/Senior High School Bomb Threat
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The Cocoa Beach Police Department has announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with a bomb threat targeting Cocoa Beach Junior/Senior High School. The threat, which occurred on September 17, 2024, led to an evacuation of the school and triggered a comprehensive law enforcement response involving multiple agencies.
According to the police, the bomb threat was initially posted on social media and referenced a prior school shooting threat made earlier that same week. Acting swiftly, the Cocoa Beach Police Department, alongside the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, Cocoa Beach Fire Department, Brevard County Fire Rescue, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), ensured the safe evacuation of students and staff while investigating the threat.
The suspect has been identified as Phillip Taylor, a resident of Arkadelphia, Arkansas. After a thorough investigation, Taylor was apprehended with the assistance of the Arkadelphia Police Department. An arrest warrant was issued for Taylor, and he was taken into custody early this morning. He will be extradited to Brevard County, where he is expected to face trial for his alleged involvement in the threat.
Police have assured the community that there is no longer any danger to the public, as the threat has been neutralized. Authorities continue to encourage anyone with additional information related to the case to contact the Cocoa Beach Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division at 321-868-3251.
Taylor is currently awaiting extradition and remains in custody in Arkansas until he is transferred to Brevard County Jail. His court date has yet to be announced.
Local officials praised the quick and coordinated efforts of all the agencies involved, ensuring the safety of the students and staff during the evacuation. Further updates on the case will be provided as new information becomes available.