Officials: 8-Year-Old Boy Brought BB Gun To School Bus Stop
BEAVER FALLS (KDKA) -- Officials with the Blackhawk School District and police in Beaver County are investigating two separate incidents involving students, including one involving a BB gun.
"It just seems like it's the norm today. They just don't know what to do," said Kevin Ramponi, who is worried about school threats.
KDKA has learned from the Chippewa Police Department that a witness saw an 8-year-old boy bring a BB gun to a school bus stop.
The incident happened Thursday morning in Darlington Township.
Police say they immediately notified the school district, who then escorted the boy off the bus.
Through their investigation, police discovered the boy actually left the gun at the bus stop. It was found in the grass.
"The kids going to school, they don't know if they're going to come home. And their parents, I feel for them," said Ramponi.
Meanwhile, hours earlier, police say there was another incident. This one involved a 13-year-old boy at Highland Middle School.
Police say he posted a threat against the school on Snapchat, claiming he wanted to hurt others and himself. They say a parent saw the post around 10:30 Wednesday night.
Police took action, telling KDKA they assume every threat is real.
"I'm hoping that the good is coming and it's all going to change, and that it's not going to last forever. But it is a little sad and it is a little scary," said Candy McKinnis, who is concerned about school threats.
KDKA reached out to the Blackhawk School District, but they were unavailable for comment.
However, in a statement posted to their website, they say in part, "We are again thankful to all students, families, staff members, and community members who report concerns to the police department and/or the school district to ensure our students and staff are safe."
The student who allegedly made the threat is getting support and the other student who had the BB gun at a bus stop is now facing disciplinary action from the school.
