Salem Police Arrest 17-Year-Old After Metal Detector Finds Gun in Backpack at Sprague High School
SALEM, Ore. — A firearm was found in the backpack of a 17-year-old student at Sprague High School in Salem yesterday (Tuesday) morning, when a metal detector alerted staff to its presence on the boy as he entered the building.
Staff conducted a search and notified the Salem Police Department after they found a handgun in the student’s backpack.
Patrol officers responded immediately to the alert and took the student into custody without incident.
Police say there was no indication that the student would have used the handgun, or that he had posed an active threat to students and staff members. According to the police, there was also no disruption to school activities.
Here is how local weapon detection and national school gunfire trends compare.
Sources: Salem-Keizer Public Schools weapon detection reports – Everytown for Gun Safety school gunfire data
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The teenager has been charged with the unlawful possession of a firearm and is lodged at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center.
The incident is under investigation.
Key moments from Tuesday’s Sprague High School incident.
- 9:20 a.m.: Metal detector at Sprague High School alerts as student enters.
- Moments later: Staff search backpack, find handgun and secure it.
- Police notified: Salem Police patrol officers respond to the school.
- On scene: 17 year old student taken into custody without incident.
- After arrest: Teen lodged at Marion County Juvenile Detention on unlawful possession of a firearm charge.
- Ongoing: Case under investigation as police and district review safety protocols.
The Salem Police Department collaborates closely with Salem-Keizer Public Schools to ensure the safety and security of students and staff.