Sep 08, 2023

Student had unloaded gun in backpack at KC-area middle school

Posted Sep 08, 2023 4:55 PM
Excelsior Springs Middle School -Google image
Excelsior Springs Middle School -Google image

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement and school district officials are investigating an incident at a Kansas City-area middle school.

Just after  7:12 a.m. Wednesday, a middle school student at Excelsior Springs Middle school, 701 Crown Hill Road, Excelsior Springs, reported to a teacher that another student may have had a weapon or gun in their backpack, according to a statement from School District 40.

The teacher immediately alerted school district administration, who in turn, promptly contacted the School Resource Officer.

The school administration and the SRO immediately had alleged student and their backpack secured separately.

Upon searching the student and their backpack, an unloaded gun was discovered in the backpack. Officials found no ammunition which further contributed to de-escalating the situation.

The incident was contained before students were scheduled to enter the building at the normal time of 7:15a.m.

"We would like to emphasize that this rapid response ensured the safety of all students," according to the release.  The school district extended  gratitude to the student who reported their concerns to the teacher. "Your courage and responsibility in sharing this information played a pivotal role in our ability to address the situation swiftly and effectively."