A recent spate of vandalism in Bullhead City schools has been linked to a TikTok challenge that promotes the intentional sabotage of school property. The Bullhead City School District reported an incident at Bullhead City Middle School where a laptop began smoking in the classroom, prompting an evacuation of the students. FOX 10 Phoenix relayed that no injuries occurred as a result of the ensuing commotion.
The destructive trend seems to involve inserting foreign objects into USB ports, as evidenced by the damage to six Chromebooks at Fox Creek Junior High School on May 7. These incidents mimic the actions encouraged by the said viral challenge. "This is yet another urgent call for parents and guardians to talk to their children about social media responsibility, and the inherent dangers – and consequences – that come with poor decisions," BCSD Superintendent Dr. Carolyn Stewart cautioned in a statement obtained by 12 News.
Police are actively investigating the matter, interviewing students and witnesses to ascertain the appropriate level of discipline, which could encompass criminal charges. In addition, parents may face financial repercussions for the vandalism attributed to their children. Amidst these developments, the identity of the culprits remains undisclosed, adhering strictly to privacy protections for juveniles and students.
Similar warnings about the TikTok challenge have been disseminated by school districts across other states following reports of property damage. "These are not innocent pranks," Superintendent Stewart stressed. Her statement echoes concerns raised in New Jersey, where a student allegedly set a Chromebook ablaze for the sake of virality, according to local reports echoed by 12 News.
