LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A woman was arrested at a Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) high school on Friday after police say she threatened to kill students and even tried to burn them.
At about noon, JCPS Police were dispatched to Fern Creek Elementary on Ferndale Road on report of an "out of control parent," later identified as 29-year-old Utamuliza Karinganire of Louisville.
Officers on scene spoke to Principal Tonya Arnold who said Karinganire was the parent of a former student. She no longer has custody of the student and was not aware the child doesn't go to the school. The staff sent her away, authorities say.
Karinganire then continued to Fern Creek High School and approached a class that was outside working on a project. Police say she yelled the following at the students: "I am going to kill all of you. You all will die."
Officers say Karinganire made the sign of a gun with her hand and began acting as if she were shooting students. She then pulled out a lighter and tried to burn several students, causing the students to run back into the school.
Fern Creek High School went on level three lockdown until officers located Karinganire in front of the school and arrested her.
Karinganire was charged with terroristic threatening (2nd degree) and criminal trespassing (3rd degree).
Karinganire was arraigned on Saturday where she pleaded not guilty. Her bond is set at $25,000 full cash. She is expected at court again on March 4, 2024.
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