ST. THOMAS — A loaded firearm was discovered in a student’s possession during a routine random search at Charlotte Amalie High School on Monday, prompting an immediate response from school personnel and the V.I. Police Department, according to the V.I. Department of Education.

The weapon was confiscated without delay, and VIDE said established safety protocols were activated as soon as the firearm was found. The student will face disciplinary consequences and legal action in accordance with Department policy and Virgin Islands law.

VIDE said the incident underscores the seriousness of bringing weapons, drugs, or any illegal items onto public school campuses. The Department restated that such acts “endanger the school community, violate Department regulations, and create fear, panic, and disruption for students, faculty, and staff.” It emphasized that schools “are institutions of learning not environments for illegal, harmful, or threatening items.”

In response to Monday’s discovery, VIDE said random searches will continue on all campuses as part of ongoing efforts to keep school environments safe. The Department also noted that it will maintain close coordination with the Virgin Islands Police Department as the investigation continues and disciplinary measures move forward.

VIDE encouraged parents, guardians, and students to treat this matter with seriousness and to support efforts to preserve a secure, distraction-free environment focused on teaching, learning, and student success.