St. Petersburg – Northeast High School principal Hernandez sent a communication to parents and guardians on Tuesday afternoon informing them that an 11th-grade student was found in possession of a firearm on campus at the end of the school day.
The message stated that the student “showed signs of impairment” towards the end of the school day. Staff conducted a search of the student’s belongings, during which a weapon was found in their backpack. Principal Hernandez emphasized that the student did not make any threats, and no students or staff members were harmed during the incident.
Law enforcement responded immediately, and the 16-year-old student is now facing school disciplinary action and criminal charges.
Criminal Charges
- Possession of a Weapon on School Grounds
- Delinquent in Possession of a Firearm
- Violation of Supervised Release
In the email, Hernandez reiterated the district’s zero-tolerance policy, stating: “As always, weapons or items resembling weapons are strictly prohibited on campus, and violations can result in serious school and legal consequences.” The principal encouraged anyone with safety concerns to contact the school administration.