Police in Suffolk County, Long Island, say that a 45-year-old man is facing charges after he allegedly threatened to shoot an 11-year-old boy who he lost to while playing the video game “Fortnite.”

Police say that Michael Aliperti of Huntington, knew the 11-year-old through mutual acquaintances and had been playing the game online together for several months. Police say that when the boy took one of the virtual guns away from Aliperti in the game, Aliperti became angry and threatened to harm the boy.

Officials say that Aliperti messaged the boy through the Xbox messaging service, as well as through text message, and said that he may find the boy at school.

Police say that they increased security at the school Tuesday as a precaution.

Aliperti was arraigned on aggravated harassment and acting in a manner to injure a child charges. Both charges are misdemeanors. 

Aliperti's attorney tells News 12 that his client is a father of three with no criminal record and in the middle of a contested divorce.

“Fortnite” is a free-to-play online video game that pits 100 players versus each other. Game developer Epic Games has made millions since the game launched last year. The game is wildly popular with preteens and adults alike.

Police cautioned parents to monitor their children who play the game to make sure they know who they may be playing with online.