Licking County, OH – Northridge Local Schools canceled classes Wednesday after deputies investigated alarming comments made during a phone call with a staff member, according to the Licking County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Randy Thorp reported that on September 24, 2025, deputies received concerns about an individual’s statements during a call with the district. While the comments were not directed at students or the school itself, they were relayed to a Licking County School Resource Officer, prompting further review.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies later confirmed reports that the same individual had allegedly obtained or attempted to purchase a rifle, which he could not legally possess. Detectives launched an investigation that validated the concerns.
As a result, an arrest warrant was issued for William Shade Miller, 36, of Knox County, on the charge of Having Weapons Under Disability. Deputies located Miller at a gas station in Utica on Wednesday afternoon, where he was taken into custody without incident. He is currently being held at the Licking County Justice Center.
Northridge Local Schools announced that classes were canceled Wednesday “out of an abundance of caution,” though district officials confirmed school will resume Thursday.
Sheriff Thorp emphasized that the safety of students and the community remains the department’s top priority, noting the cooperation of the district and vigilance of staff in reporting the matter quickly.
“This was a decision made by the school administration,” Thorp said, praising the community’s role in ensuring a safe and timely resolution.
