Press release from Gainesville Police Department

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — On Tuesday, October 29, a Gainesville High School student was arrested by Gainesville Police Department officers after bringing a loaded firearm onto campus.

The investigation began after an anonymous tip stated a student was carrying a handgun in his backpack. The tip was provided to GHS School Resource Officers, who attempted to intercept the student upon his arrival at school, but the student was located in a classroom. The officers informed school administrators and removed the student from the room. When officers advised the student they needed to speak with him, the student attempted to flee. Officers immediately detained him. The student then admitted to having a gun in his bag.

A search of the student’s backpack revealed a loaded 9mm handgun. The student later told officers he found the gun in a local neighborhood and claimed he carried it for self-protection.

The student is currently on probation and faces new charges of carrying a concealed firearm, resisting without violence, and possession of a firearm on school property.