A student at West Phoenix High School was detained by Phoenix police on Tuesday after the individual was discovered with a gun on campus grounds. Officials reported that the arrest took place before noon at the school located near 39th Avenue and Thomas Road, FOX 10 Phoenix detailed.
The student in question was escorted to the administrative office due to possession of an item that violated school policy, where upon further investigation a firearm was found in their possession. "While in the office, the student was found to be in possession of a firearm," the authorities stated. Consequently, the student was arrested and is expected to face weapons charges, 12 News reported.
No injuries were associated with the incident, per the police. In the wake of the event, the school's spokesperson relayed that during what seemed initially to be a minor disciplinary issue, an unloaded gun was discovered in the student's backpack. The incident led to the police being notified in alignment with the school safety procedures.
"We are thankful our safety procedures worked as they were designed to and that our students remained safe throughout this situation," the spokesperson mentioned in a statement to FOX 10 Phoenix. They further emphasized the school's commitment to student security and expressed gratitude towards the Phoenix Police Department for ensuring the safe environment of the campus, in the statement found also by 12 News. The school pledged to maintain their cooperation with law enforcement as the investigation continues, saying, "We will continue to cooperate with their investigation."
