A 15-year-old from Gresham was taken into custody yesterday on charges of criminal mischief after he allegedly fired a pellet gun at several school buses, according to local authorities. KOIN reported that the teen admitted to shooting the bus windows during police questioning. The Gresham-Barlow school buses were reportedly hit on Powell Valley Road near Kane Drive around 2:30 p.m., just as they were beginning their afternoon rounds, according to KATU.

Damages included three windshields and four side windows, causing some delays in the school bus routes. While shooting at the buses, no children were present on the vehicles, and none of the drivers sustained injuries. This was confirmed by both police officials and the school district. The assault on these vehicles, meant to safeguard our children, happened in broad daylight and could have escalated into a more tragic situation if students were aboard. The Outlook Online reported the buses had not yet picked up any children, which officials and parents would say is a relief.

No further details were disclosed on the motive behind the teen's actions or the condition of the damaged buses. The Gresham-Barlow school district, while confirming no students or drivers were hurt, has not released a formal statement on the incident beyond the delay notifications.

Law enforcement took quick action to apprehend the juvenile suspect, highlighting the responsiveness of Gresham's officers to potential threats to community safety. The teen, whose name has not been made public due to his age, is now facing charges that reflect the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case. After being taken into custody, the 15-year-old was booked at a juvenile detention facility. As the investigation continues, the community is left to ponder the consequences of such actions and the potential dangers that stem from them.