Essex County OPP have arrested a 17-year-old in connection to an alleged gun incident at Leamington District High School
OPP launched an investigation after a student allegedly brought a handgun to the school on Thursday
Police say officers received information about a video that was circulating of a student with what is suspected to be a firearm in a classroom. Officers met with school staff and officials to identify those involved and ensure the safety of the staff and students
Videos were sent to CTV News by a parent at the school. OPP confirms the video is of the incident at Leamington District Secondary School
Police say no one was hurt and the situation is secure
A spokesperson for the Greater Essex County District School Board confirmed they are aware of the incident. They say they “enacted safe school protocols” when they learned of the allegation
One parent at the school, Kyle Mills, says he believes parents should have been notified immediately.
“I was shaking when I heard this news,” said Mills. “Just the thought of what could have happened, it got me really worked up over it. I would have liked to have the opportunity to say ‘kids, stay home today.’ You know? It’s not worth the risk. It’s one day. Let the police do their job, deal with the situation and move forward. I was scared. I was scared.”
Police say a 17-year-old from Chatham-Kent was arrested Friday before they arrived at school. As a result, the teen was charged with assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose and mischief under $5,000
The teen was released from custody with a future court date
Police say there are no further safety concerns, students are encouraged to immediately report similar incidents to school staff and police
