Loaded gun found inside 14-year-old’s backpack at Rocky River High School

A loaded weapon was found inside a student’s backpack Tuesday morning at a Mint Hill high school.

The weapon – a Taurus 9mm handgun – was found at Rocky River High School in the possession of a 14-year-old student, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

The school’s principal sent a message to parents informing them of the incident.

“This morning we were made aware of a student who may have had a gun in their possession,” the statement read. “The student was detained at school and had their backpack searched. A loaded weapon was found.”

A source told WBTV that an anonymous tip was called in that the student had the gun. School officials said the caller identified the student by name.

There was no indication that the student removed the gun from the backpack while on school property, officials said. No students or staff were ever threatened, and everyone is safe.

The student was released to the custody of parents. A juvenile petition will be filed with the Juvenile Court System, according to the district.

This story was originally published November 21, 2017 at 3:15 PM with the headline "Loaded gun found inside 14-year-old’s backpack at Rocky River High School."