HAMDEN, Conn. — Police said a 17-year-old student was arrested Tuesday afternoon after allegedly bringing a loaded handgun to school.
Officers responded to Hamden High School around 1 p.m. after school officials learned the teen was in possession of the gun over the weekend.
When questioned about it, police said the teen became uncooperative. Officers on scene were used de-escalation techniques to help diffuse the situation, according to a release.
Eventually, a loaded .45 caliber handgun was found in the student's backpack.
The teen was charged with the following:
- Carrying a pistol without a permit
- Possession of a weapon on school grounds
- 2nd degree Reckless endangerment
- 2nd degree Breach of peace
Police added that during the incident, the student was brought to the principal’s office for precautionary measures. A stay in place order was given by school officials while police were investigating.
Hamden PD is encouraging anyone with information regarding weapons or student safety to always come forward with the information.
"Today serves as an important reminder of the collaboration efforts between the community, the Board of Education and the Hamden Police Department to help keep the public and our student population safe," officials wrote in a release.
Police will have an increased presence at the high school in the coming days.
Jody Goeler, Superindent of Hamden Schools, wrote in a letter to parents that the crisis team would be available for students and staff who need assistance processing the incident.
"During this difficult time, it is more important than ever to have conversations with your children about the dangers of gun violence and to encourage your children to continue to report unsafe and concerning behaviors to trusted adults. If you see something, say something."
Have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com
---
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
iTunes: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.