A 16-year-old questioned kids near a Bradenton elementary school. He had a gun, cops say
Police arrested a 16-year-old boy Friday morning for questioning elementary school children while in possession of a stolen firearm.
The Bradenton Police Department arrested the teen around 7:30 a.m. after several students alerted an officer about a suspicious person near the playground. According to a release, students told an on-duty officer that the suspect was asking students at Ballard Elementary School about their names and grades.
Following a foot chase, officers apprehended the teen, who also confessed to stealing the firearm during a vehicle break-in, according to a release. Investigators say the boy did not explain why he was speaking to kids on campus.
The teen is facing at least several charges, including possession of a firearm on school property, trespassing on school property while armed, unlawful possession of a firearm by a juvenile and motor vehicle theft.
Parents and school staff have been notified of the event, but an investigation is still underway. Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact Detective Jay Gow at (941) 932-9373. Tips can also be sent via email to BPDTIPS@BradentonPD.com. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-8477 (TIPS) or by sending an online tip at www.ManateeCrimeStoppers.com.
This story was originally published September 11, 2020 at 3:04 PM.
