A group of fifth-grade students at Legacy Traditional School in Surprise, Arizona, were arrested last fall after allegedly plotting to murder a fellow student and stage it as a suicide, according to a newly released police report.
Plot Uncovered After Overheard Conversation
The alleged plan came to light on October 1, 2024, when a student overheard the group discussing it and informed a parent, who then alerted school officials. The plan reportedly involved luring the boy into a bathroom, stabbing him, wearing gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints, and forging a suicide note.
Motive Tied to Personal Grudge
Investigators learned that one of the suspects, a girl, had been in a “relationship” with the victim and was upset after he allegedly cheated on her. She reportedly expressed hatred toward him and wanted him dead.
Mixed Reactions Among Students
One student claimed she joked about the plan but backed off when others became serious. Another said he pretended to go along with it to avoid being excluded, while a third only realized the seriousness of the plan when assigned the role of guard.
Students Arrested and Suspended
Four students—two aged 10 and two aged 11—were arrested on charges of threatening and disorderly conduct. They were released to their parents and suspended pending expulsion.
Parents and School Respond
The victim’s parent expressed a desire to pursue prosecution. While three students showed remorse, one reportedly laughed and made excuses. In a statement, Legacy Traditional School emphasized its commitment to student safety but said it could not comment on individual cases due to privacy laws.
Ongoing Investigation and Consequences
The school noted that threats could result in disciplinary action up to expulsion. The parents of the accused students have not responded publicly.
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