Buffalo, N.Y. – An Illinois man was arrested after allegedly attempting to lure students at a Buffalo school, running away after confronting employees, according to prosecutors on Wednesday.
Shane Cronin, 30, from Lombard, Illinois, was taken into custody near the school later.
He pleaded not guilty to charges including attempted assault, robbery, and luring, and has been remanded without bail.
Cronin reportedly entered the Dr. Charles R. Drew Science Magnet School on February 11 without authorization, approaching two children in the hallway. Authorities mentioned that he seemed to be trying to interact with one of them when school staff noticed him and instructed him to leave, as detailed by District Attorney Michael Keene.
According to the prosecution, as school personnel intervened, Cronin fled the building, leading to a physical confrontation where he was pushed to the ground before escaping.
The school is situated next to the Buffalo Science Museum.
The defense attorney suggested that Cronin could have been experiencing a severe mental health crisis at the time, noting that he had legally visited the science museum prior to enrolling at the affiliated school.
“Most employees acted appropriately in addressing someone unauthorized on school property,” said Attorney Daniel Dubois in an email.
According to Debore, both he and the police searched Cronin and his vehicle, finding no weapons or tools.
A Buffalo Public Schools representative did not respond immediately to inquiries about how Cronin gained access to the school or any potential security lapses.
This school serves students in grades 3 to 8.
Last month, the Buffalo School Board approved an independent investigation after a seasoned police detective criticized the district’s handling of the situation during a podcast on April 26.
Keene acknowledged awareness of the detective’s remarks.
“My office is reviewing the case. We are dedicated to upholding the law, seeking justice for those affected, and preserving the integrity of the investigative process,” he stated.
