Sussex Central High student found with gun at school

Delaware State Police arrested a 16-year-old Sussex Central High School student March 15 after he was found to be in possession of a handgun on school property.

About 9 a.m., March 15, police say the Sussex Central school resource officer was notified by staff that a student in the building had a firearm in his possession. The trooper contacted the student and removed him from his classroom, police said, and a search of the teen’s backpack led to the discovery of an unloaded handgun with accompanying ammunition. The gun was confiscated and the 16-year-old was taken into custody without incident, police said; no students or staff were harmed and the school day proceeded as normal.

The teen was taken to Troop 4 and charged with felony possession of a weapon in a Safe School Zone. He was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on $2,500 unsecured bond. He was also issued a no-contact order with the Indian River School District, police said.

In a March 15 statement, Indian River School District officials said the school resource officer responded immediately to the incident based on reports from other students. 

“The safety of students and staff is our top priority and we are appreciative of the swift action taken by the school staff and safety personnel at SCHS. The district cannot comment further on this incident, as it is an ongoing police investigation.” 

This story has been updated.