Charles County Public Schools dismissed students early Wednesday after authorities recovered a loaded firearm equipped with a machine-gun conversion switch from a locker at St. Charles High School, the second such incident in two days.
On April 30, a school administrator noticed a 15-year-old student acting suspiciously and carrying a book bag in an unusual manner. After the student placed the bag in a locker, the administrator searched it and discovered a fully loaded polymer handgun modified with a switch capable of automatic fire. The weapon contained a 30-round magazine. The student did not display the firearm. A School Resource Officer took the juvenile into custody on scene.
The discovery followed a similar event on April 29, when another loaded firearm was recovered inside the school and a second 15-year-old student was arrested.
In response to the back-to-back incidents, Charles County Public Schools released all students for the remainder of the day. Detectives from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, working alongside school resource officers and district administrators, are coordinating the ongoing investigation. K9 gun-detection teams from the sheriff’s office, supported by other agencies, conducted a thorough sweep of the building. No additional firearms were found.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office emphasized its commitment to student and staff safety. “The Charles County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to the safety and well-being of all students and staff,” officials stated.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about these cases or knowledge of weapons in schools to contact Charles County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips may also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or through the P3Intel mobile app. Additional details will be released as they become available.
The incidents have heightened concerns about school safety in Charles County, one of Southern Maryland’s three counties served by the Southern Maryland Chronicle. St. Charles High School, located in Waldorf, draws students from across the region. Both cases remain under active investigation.
As the investigation continues, the Southern Maryland Chronicle will provide updates as verified information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and utilize the tip lines provided by law enforcement.
