Salem, OR. — A 17-year-old student was taken into custody Tuesday morning after school staff discovered a handgun in his backpack at Sprague High School, according to Salem Police.
The incident occurred around 9:20 a.m., when the student triggered a metal detector while entering the building. Staff searched his backpack and located a firearm, which was immediately secured before officials contacted police.
Patrol officers arrived shortly afterward and arrested the student without incident. The Salem teen was transported to the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center on a charge of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.
Authorities said there was no disruption on campus and no indication the student intended to use the weapon or posed an active threat to others.
The investigation remains ongoing. Police said they are continuing to coordinate with Salem-Keizer Public Schools to maintain campus safety and security.
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