NEWTON GROVE – A student at Hobbton Middle School alerted a staff member Wednesday to the possibility that a student had a firearm on campus as school was letting out for the day. Simultaneously, a bus attempting to leave the middle school stopped and students evacuated the bus after it was determined that the firearm could possibly be on the bus.
Law enforcement and school staff immediately responded to the incident and students were escorted back to a secure location within the school. A search by officials led to the discovery of a stolen firearm on a juvenile, who was immediately taken into custody.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a juvenile brought a small pistol to school, and at least four juveniles were involved in or had knowledge of the firearm on campus.
No one was injured during the events. Lock down procedures were immediately followed by school system staff.
Additional law enforcement officers and personnel from the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office, Newton Grove Police Department, the Clinton Police Department, and Sampson County Emergency Services responded to assist with security and searches.
In accordance with NC Juvenile Law, all four juveniles in possession of the firearm have been referred to the NC Department of Juvenile Justice.
Sheriff Jimmy Thornton said, “This is a serious incident that could have been tragic. Thankfully, a brave and alert student chose to do a courageous thing and report what they saw. I’m thankful for the quick response of school staff and law enforcement.”
Authorities are still investigating how the juvenile came into possession of the stolen firearm.
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Hold parents responsible for their minor children. It’s the only way.
Needs to be charged as adults. They are in middle school and know right from wrong and the gun stolen on top of it. I hope Police can find out how they got the gun.
” a search was performed”…..Did thay have a warrent?
“Warrant “ and “They”.