Manatee High student, 15, facing charges after police say he brought a gun to school
A 15-year-old Manatee High School student is facing criminal charges after bringing a gun onto school grounds, according to the Bradenton Police Department.
On Tuesday afternoon, Bradenton police officers were called to the school after a suspicious bag was found on campus, according to a news release.
“Based on the weight and dimensions of the bag, it was believed to contain a firearm,” the release states.
Using a school surveillance camera, police said they identified the 15-year-old student exiting school and leaving the bag outside of an exterior door. Detectives found the teen at home, “where he confirmed the bag was his and did contain a firearm,” the release continues.
The teen reportedly told detectives the gun was for self-defense and that he forgot the firearm in his backpack. In his statement to police, the teen also expressed regret and said he never intended to bring the gun to school or to harm anyone.
Principal Sharon Scarbrough sent a message to families later that evening. It said that one of Manatee High School’s assistant principals had notified a school resource officer after finding the bag and feeling a hard object inside, prompting the investigation.
“I want to assure you that all of our students and staff are safe,” the principal wrote. “Please use this incident to teach your children the danger and consequences of bringing any kind of weapon to school. And please ask them to report any unsafe or dangerous items they see to school staff.”
Police say charges are pending against the teen, who was not identified in Tuesday’s news release. It was also unclear what specific charges might be filed.
Bradenton police spokesman Capt. Brian Thiers did not respond to calls for additional information.
Anyone with any information about this incident can call Bradenton police detective Michael Carpenter at 941-932-9310. Information can also be submitted by emailing bpdtips@bradentonpd.com.
To remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000, tips can be submitted to Manatee Crime Stoppers by calling 1-866-634-8477 (TIPS) or online at manateecrimestoppers.com.
This story was originally published October 5, 2021 at 5:51 PM.
