A Palm Bay Magnet High School student was intercepted this morning for attempting to bring a loaded handgun onto campus. As reported by WFTV, the weapon was detected at the school entrance by the OPENGATE Weapons Detection system. School officials and Melbourne police responded quickly to the situation, ensuring the safety of students and staff.
According to the report from WESH, the system flagged the handgun at the security checkpoint of the front office. The student is a 17-year-old boy from Melbourne, whose identity has not been disclosed due to his minor status. He is facing charges for possession of a firearm on school grounds and possession of a firearm by a minor under 18.
School authorities lauded the efficacy of the OPENGATE system in preventing what could have escalated into a far more tragic incident. "The weapon was promptly confiscated, and the student was taken into police custody," according to Brevard Public Schools' statement detailed by WFTV.
