An unsettling incident involving a 9-year-old student at West Ottawa Public Schools has emerged, with reports that the child brought a handgun and ammunition onto a school bus. According to information provided by WZZM13, Ottawa County Sheriff's Office began their investigation last Tuesday after a complaint was made about the student having the handgun on the bus. The child was found to have ammunition during this initial investigation.
The scrutiny into the events revealed the student had displayed the handgun on the bus the previous week, on May 1. However, the investigators and authorities have reason to believe the gun was not loaded, and articulated that while it is concerning, they do not think students or staff were in any immediate physical danger. "It's a parent's duty and responsibility to make sure their firearms are locked up safely," Ottawa County Capt. Jake Sparks was quoted saying, in a statement obtained by WZZM13.
Further details about the incident from MLive indicate that the child was immediately removed from school once the authorities began their investigation.
The school superintendent, Tim Bearden, reassured the community that all were safe and that due to the swift actions of various parties involved, "there is no ongoing safety issue related to this incident," according to WZZM13.
Law enforcement officials have stated that once their investigation is to conclude, they will consult with the Ottawa County Prosecuting Attorney's Office to determine if charges should be filed. As the case is still under active investigation, anyone with pertinent knowledge is encouraged to reach out with information, either through the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office or Silent Observer, as reported by FOX17Online. The Sheriff’s Office has also reminded the public that they provide trigger locks to secure firearms which are available to community members.
