After a thorough search, no threat was identified. Student set to be expelled for at least one year.
A comment by a student at Parke Heritage Middle School prompted an investigation about a possible gun.
On Thursday morning, the Parke County Sheriff's Office reports that a Parke Heritage Middle School 6th grader allegedly made a comment about having a firearm in his backpack while riding the bus to school. The incident was reported to school authorities by the school's resource officer just after 9 a.m.
In response, school officials promptly searched the student's locker and personal belongings at the school but found no firearm or related materials. However, the student was on a field trip at Raccoon Lake at the time of the search.
Parke County Sheriff's Ddeputies arrived at Raccoon Lake by 9:17 a.m. and made contact with the student, who had been separated from other students by school staff. Deputies conducted a thorough search of the student's belongings, and the bus used for transportation, but no firearm or related materials were discovered.
By 9:45 a.m., deputies had reached the student’s home to speak with his family and conduct a search of the residence. No firearms were found. The family denied having any in their possession.
In light of the situation, the school has initiated the process to expel the student for one year, citing safety concerns. The Parke County Sheriff's Office has also confirmed that a criminal investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Lawrence County time capsule to be opened
Lawrence County honors its' servicemen and women on Veterans Day
Illinois State Police to conduct holiday safety patrols
LCMH adds new team member
Illinois to get additional federal healthcare funding
Prep your vehicle for winter weather
Expanded opportunities for incarcerated Hoosiers through 10-year Ivy Tech partnership
Southwestern Indiana fatal accident victim identified
Bridgeport to look at property ordinance revision
Conservation officers remind hunters to prioritize safety during deer season
Knox County caucus set to replace Streeter
Unit 20 Board to replace football field turf
Escaped Tennessee convict taken into custody
Conviction appeal denied for Ray Tate
Governor Braun extends gas tax savings
