Oldham County High School teacher allegedly said he 'would become the next school shooter'

Marina Johnson and Krista Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal
Updated ·1 min read
22
Children raise their hands in a classroom.
Children raise their hands in a classroom.

An Oldham County teacher isn't allowed back on school grounds after making a "concerning, threatening statement" in front of students.

The teacher, Michel Tripp, allegedly told students at Oldham County High that "he would become the next school shooter," according to the police report obtained by The Courier Journal.

Oldham County Police were notified of the incident after a student told school staff Tripp, 65, "told a group of students that he only has a few days left to shoot up the school."

In an interview with officers, Tripp waived his Miranda Rights, according to the police report, and stated he'd said to students, "he would become the next school shooter."

Tripp was charged with one count of terroristic threats in the second degree. He is not allowed on campus for the remainder of the 2023-2024 academic year, said Natalie Brown, OCHS principal.

"Safety is our top priority and we believe transparent communication is vital," she said in an email to families. "We're thankful to our students for coming forward with their concern and appreciate your ongoing support and cooperation as we work together to ensure the well-being of our school community."

Tripp earned his teaching certificate from the Kentucky Department of Education in July 2020. His bio has since been removed from the Oldham County school site.

Tripp's court date is scheduled for May 29.

This story will update.

Louisville Shootings Multiple shootings took place in Louisville Tuesday night, resulting in 2 deaths and injuries

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Michel Tripp: Oldham County High School teacher removed from classroom