Smithtown student arrested after unloaded handgun and bullets found in bag
School administrators called Suffolk County police, and the student's bag was searched, where the unloaded handgun and bullets were found, according to a letter to the community.
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A student was arrested at Smithtown High School West on Tuesday after an unloaded handgun and ammunition was found in their bag during a search that was prompted by a confrontation between two students.
Superintendent Mark Secaur said in a letter that during an investigation into a peer conflict between two students, a building administrator was alerted that one of the students may have posted a photo of a handgun on social media.
School administrators called Suffolk County police, and the student's bag was searched, where the unloaded handgun and bullets were found, according to a letter to the community.
"The presence of a weapon in our schools is deeply concerning, and we recognize the fear and uneasiness this incident may raise among our school community," Secaur wrote in the message. "We are taking this matter very seriously. The safety and well-being of our students and staff is our top priority, and we remain committed to ensuring our buildings are safe and secure."
The district said that officials are not aware of any specific threat made by the student toward another student, staff member, the high school or the district.
Secaur said that “in addition to whatever criminal charges will be brought by law enforcement, the student will face additional consequences levied in accordance with the School District’s Code of Conduct.”
He credited school staff, police and a student who reported the social media post for helping authorities respond quickly.
"We are also very thankful that a Smithtown student made us aware of the social media post, which allowed us to act quickly and manage the situation effectively," Secaur wrote. "The old adage, 'If you see something, say something,' was adhered to, and we are grateful.
