Warsaw first grader accidentally brings gun to school

WARSAW — A child from Warsaw Elementary School brought a gun to school on Tuesday, Sept. 24. According to officials from Duplin County Schools, it was an accident and no one was harmed.

Pamela Murray, the principal of Warsaw Elementary School, explained in a statement sent to parents and staff that a first-grade student had accidentally picked up his father’s bookbag, mistaking it for his school bag. When the parent realized the mix-up, he promptly went to the school and informed the staff.

“The father came to the school immediately when he realized that his child had the wrong bag,” wrote Murray in the statement.

The principal explained that the father’s bag contained his personal belongings and a legal firearm, she also shared that the school’s Resource Officer retrieved the bag and contacted the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office. According to Murray, it was determined that the first grader did not intend to possess a firearm on campus, harm anyone, or pose a threat to the school.

Murray mentioned that no charges had been filed at that time and thanked the parent for being diligent and cooperative. She also expressed gratitude for the support of the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office.