ST. CROIX — A 17-year-old student was arrested Friday morning after a loaded firearm was discovered inside a backpack at St. Croix Central High School, following reports that the teen had threatened to shoot anyone who approached.
According to the VIPD's Patrol Division, the incident occurred on Friday at approximately 8:08 a.m., when officers assigned to the School Security Bureau were alerted by school officials about the alleged threats made by the student.
Officers, working alongside school staff, immediately implemented precautionary safety measures and conducted a search of the minor’s belongings. The search led to the discovery of a fully loaded black-colored firearm in the student’s backpack.
The teen was taken into custody and charged with carrying a firearm openly or concealed. He was subsequently remanded to the Youth Rehabilitation Center pending an Advise of Rights Hearing.
The VIPD said it continues to collaborate with the V.I. Department of Education to maintain safety on all school campuses throughout the territory.
In a statement, the department reaffirmed its commitment to student and staff safety, urging members of the public to come forward with any information regarding weapons or threats in schools. “The Department encourages anyone with information related to weapons or threats on school campuses to immediately contact law enforcement or school administration,” officials said.
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