Pistol found on Central campus; gun seized, student in custody

A juvenile is in custody after a pistol was confiscated Thursday on Central High School's campus in Cape Girardeau, officials said.

There were no injuries..

The student was turned over to juvenile authorities and held for questioning with parent or guardian present, said Sgt. Rick Schmidt, information officer with the Cape Girardeau Police Department.

"I was told there was no threat made to the school or any other person," Schmidt said.

Schmidt said the incident occurred between 12:30 and 1 p.m. Thursday at Central High School.

According to a news release from the school district, the administration received information from another student who led them to the pistol.

"The juvenile student brought the pistol from home and gave no indication they were prepared to use it or to cause harm to anyone," the release stated.

"From what I understand, what we've asked these kids to do worked. Information from another student was given," Schmidt said. "It's refreshing to see a young adult do what they're supposed to and let somebody know. Nice to see that the system worked."

Supt. Neil Glass said he was thankful for the quick resolution.

"I am very thankful the student came forward, the administration acted on the information, and the situation was taken care of," Glass said.

According to the online student code of conduct for Central High School, if a student brings a firearm to school, the student "will be suspended from school for at least one calendar year or expelled." This could be modified on a case-by-case basis on recommendation by the superintendent, the code states.

mniederkorn@semissourian.com

(573) 388-3630

Pertinent address:

1000 S. Silver Springs Road, Cape Girardeau, Mo.