Ocala, Fla. – A startling incident unfolded in Marion County when police found a loaded firearm on a school bus heading to an elementary school. Authorities took a 9-year-old student into custody after discovering the gun, raising concerns about school safety and firearm access among minors.
Safe Intervention Prevents Potential Tragedy
On Monday morning, officers responded to a call about a gun found on a school bus near SW 14th Street and SW 27th Avenue, north of SW College Road. The bus was en route to College Park Elementary School. The police safely detained the fourth-grade student, who initially resisted but was peacefully apprehended.
A loaded .38 caliber revolver was recovered from the floor near the juvenile’s seat. No injuries were reported, and the other students were unharmed during the event.
“The juvenile was safely detained after initially resisting officers. A loaded .38 caliber revolver was recovered from the floor near the juvenile’s seat. No injuries were reported, and all other students on the bus were unharmed,” said the Ocala Police Department.
How the Weapon Came to Be on the Bus
Investigations revealed the child took the loaded revolver from a relative’s secured bedroom on Sunday. The student admitted to hiding the gun in their clothing and showing it to other students while on the bus.
Importantly, the child did not threaten anyone with the firearm. Other students who saw the weapon promptly reported it to the bus driver, who immediately contacted authorities.
“The student did not threaten anyone with the weapon; however, other students saw it and reported it to the bus driver, who immediately alerted authorities,” according to an official district statement.
Legal and Disciplinary Consequences for the Student
The Marion County school district confirmed to ClickOrlando that the student faces serious legal and disciplinary actions. The charges against the 9-year-old include:
- Possession of a Firearm on School Property
- Possession of a Firearm by a Minor
- Carrying a Concealed Firearm
- Armed Burglary
- Grand Theft of a Firearm
- Disruption of a School Function
- Resisting Arrest Without Violence
No further information has been released by authorities at this time.
Raising Awareness About School Safety
This incident shines a light on the critical need for vigilance regarding firearm storage and child safety in Marion County and beyond. It underscores the importance of responsible gun ownership and school preparedness plans to protect students.
According to the Ocala Police and educational officials, swift reporting by students and prompt law enforcement response were key in preventing potential harm during this alarming event.
Your Thoughts on School Safety
What do you think about this serious incident involving a firearm on a Marion County elementary school bus? Have you experienced or witnessed similar safety concerns at your local schools? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!
