ST. LUCIE COUNTY − A 15-year-old student at Fort Pierce Westwood Academy was arrested Thursday after St. Lucie County Sheriff’s officials reported finding a loaded handgun in his backpack, according to an affidavit.
The student, a Fort Pierce resident, was arrested on felony charges of possession of a weapon – firearm on school property; weapon offense – under 18 year old unlawful possession of firearm; and possession of weapon or ammunition by a Florida delinquent, an affidavit states.
Students about 10:30 a.m. Thursday approached a school resource deputy indicating they thought a student had a weapon on campus. After receiving a photo of the student, investigators ultimately identified him but learned he’d signed out earlier for an appointment.
The teen later returned to school, and an investigator searched his backpack, finding the handgun, which had three cartridges in the magazine.
The student declined to speak with investigators, the affidavit states.
“This is a great example of ‘See Something, Say Something,’” Sheriff Richard Del Toro said in a statement. “The vigilant eyes of our community helped prevent a potential tragedy, and we are thankful for their quick response.”
In a message sent Thursday, Principal David Alfonso stated the student would face expulsion.
“Providing a safe and secure learning environment is of top priority in St. Lucie Public Schools and we take these incidents very seriously,” Alfonso stated. “Extensive security measures are in place to help us maintain a safe campus.”
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Will Greenlee is a breaking news reporter for TCPalm. Follow Will on X @OffTheBeatTweet or reach him by phone at 772-267-7926. E-mail him at will.greenlee@tcpalm.com.
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Fort Pierce Westwood Academy student arrested after gun found