AHWATUKEE, AZ — Phoenix police say a juvenile was arrested Thursday after a loaded handgun was found in his backpack at Mountain Pointe High School.
Police say an administrated search led to the discovery of the weapon within the school near 44th Street and Ray Road in Ahwatukee.
Police say no threats were reported to the school or police related to this incident, but the student was arrested.
Mountain Pointe High School sent the following letter home to parents after the incident:
"Dear Pride Families,
This letter is to inform you that one of our students brought a firearm to school today. Mountain Pointe HS is committed to the safety and education of all our students. We also want to clearly communicate with families about safety issues when they arise.
During a search for another item, the firearm was discovered in the student’s backpack. At no time was the firearm brought out at school or used to threaten other students.
The superintendent’s office and Phoenix Police Department were notified immediately. This was a violation of law; criminal charges will be brought in addition to school imposed disciplinary measures. The student involved will be subject to school board policy and appropriate laws that govern weapons on school grounds.
Please discuss this incident with your children and emphasize that it is against the law to bring weapons of any type to school. Also, please emphasize the importance of telling you or a staff member if there is a weapon at school. In this way, we are all working together to keep our school safe.
Please contact the Mountain Pointe Administration directly if you have questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Tomika Banks
Principal-MPHS"
