Supporters described Tapia as a caring, fun-loving, dependable teen who was active in football and wrestling and was looked to as a leader by his peers. Lougsdon said the girls may not have taken the threats seriously. Then they kind of shrugged their shoulders and gave a half-smile. The victims were not in court Wednesday. The girls didn't say why they wouldn't be there, Johnson said.
Police say four other teen-age boys also handled the gun at school.
Prosecutors initially referred their cases to diversion, Johnson said, which means that they would not be charged, although they could face community service. However, three of those students were denied diversion, Johnson said, so prosecutors intend to file charges. Educators said Tapia seems remorseful. He lost something in what he did. Tapia, who has been in counseling since May, has responded well to treatment, Fitzpatrick said.