Loaded gun found in Santa Rosa student's backpack

(BCN) -- A 16-year-old boy who allegedly brought a loaded gun to school in Santa Rosa was arrested on Thursday afternoon, police said.

The handgun was discovered as school officials at Elsie Allen High School were investigating a possible gang-related graffiti incident involving the student and were searching his backpack.
"During this search, a staff member discovered a small satchel containing the handgun and a loaded 24-round magazine," Santa Rosa police said.

A school administrator reported the firearm to police about 1:15 p.m. By the time officers arrived, school officials had confiscated the firearm, a 9-millimeter handgun, and secured the student.

The teen was booked at juvenile hall on suspicion of possession of a loaded handgun on campus, possession of an unregistered handgun, and being a minor in possession of a handgun.

"The Santa Rosa Police Department and Santa Rosa City Schools emphasize that weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited on school grounds," police said in a news release.

"Parents are urged to speak with their children about the serious consequences of possessing any weapons, including replica weapons, on school grounds, at home, or in our community."

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