MARION COUNTY, Miss. ( WHLT ) – Marion County deputies arrested an elderly man after he allegedly held two staff members at an elementary school against their will.

Marion County Sheriff Berkley Hall said Timothy Wad, 76, of Foxworth, entered the West Marion Primary School before 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 25, as staff were entering. The staff recognized that Ward did not belong and attempted to escort him outside. The sheriff said Ward brandished a firearm in his waistband and held two staff members against their will.

According to Hall, Ward was approached by another staff member, who he pointed the firearm at. A 911 call was made before 7:30 a.m., and deputies responded to the scene.

While deputies were responding, another staff member approached Ward and took him to the ground. The staff member held Ward down until Marion County School District Police arrived and arrested Ward.

Additional law enforcement arrived at the scene and cleared the school of any additional threats. Hall said the firearm was later found to be a CO2-style air pistol.

Ward was transported to the Marion County Jail. He has been charged with terroristic threat law and two counts of kidnapping.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Mississippi Department of Homeland Security are investigating the incident.

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