Hernando High Student Arrested After False Bomb Threat to Oak Hill Hospital

By Staff Writer — The Brooksville Signal

Brooksville, Fla — A 15-year-old student at Hernando High School was arrested this week after allegedly making a false bomb threat against Oak Hill Hospital, according to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded around 12:14 p.m. Tuesday after a hospital employee received a phone call from a blocked number. The caller reportedly said, “I’m going to blow up your hospital.”

Law enforcement immediately secured the facility and conducted a full sweep of the premises. No suspicious devices or persons were found, and no injuries or damages were reported.

Investigators Trace Call to High School Student

Detectives traced the call to a phone belonging to a Hernando High student. When questioned by the school’s resource deputy, the student said he had lent his phone to another classmate, later identified as Phoenix Smith, born June 24, 2010.

According to the sheriff’s office report, Smith admitted to making the call, claiming he didn’t realize the number belonged to a hospital and believed he was calling a random line as a “prank.”

Smith was arrested and charged with Making a False Bomb Threat, a felony under Florida law. He was taken to the Hernando County Detention Center before being transferred to a juvenile facility in Ocala.

Officials Emphasize No Credible Threat

Authorities stressed that the threat was not credible and that there was never an actual danger to hospital staff or patients

False Threats Carry Real Consequences

Even when intended as a prank, false bomb threats are treated as serious crimes. Under Florida law, anyone — including juveniles — who makes such threats can face felony charges, probation, and long-term juvenile supervision.

Local educators say the incident underscores the importance of teaching students about digital responsibility and the legal consequences of online or phone-based hoaxes.

“One impulsive decision can change a young person’s life,” said a local school counselor. “These are moments for education and accountability.”

Next Steps

Court proceedings for the student will move forward through the juvenile justice system. Hernando County Schools is expected to review its policies regarding phone use on campus and student supervision during lunch periods. Community outreach programs on cyber safety and threat awareness may be expanded in the wake of the incident.