A student was arrested after a loaded gun was discovered at Fort Pierce Westwood High School in St. Lucie County on May 5, 2025. According to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, the firearm was found in the student’s backpack during a routine administrative investigation.
Loaded Gun Incident at Fort Pierce Westwood High School
The incident occurred early in the afternoon when two students were involved in an administrative investigation by a school dean. Deputies assigned as St. Lucie County School Resource Officers were present during the search.
The Sheriff’s Office reported, “During a search of one student’s backpack by the dean, a loaded 9mm firearm was discovered. Deputies immediately intervened and detained both students without incident.”
Immediate Response by School and Authorities
Following the discovery, the student was promptly arrested. The student, identified only as a boy, was taken into custody by sheriff’s deputies. Authorities have not yet released the student’s name or age.
Principal David Alfonso communicated directly with parents, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Alfonso stated clearly that bringing a firearm to campus would result in arrest and severe disciplinary actions, including a recommendation for expulsion in accordance with the school’s St. Lucie County Schools Student Code of Conduct.
Principal’s Message to Parents
In his message, Principal Alfonso assured parents, “We will not tolerate students bringing weapons to campus and we have systems in place to ensure we catch students that do.” He emphasized the school’s commitment to student safety and the strict enforcement of school policies.
Safety Measures and Policies at St. Lucie County Schools
St. Lucie County schools maintain strict security protocols to prevent incidents involving weapons. School resource officers, regular backpack checks, and administrative oversight are part of ongoing safety measures.
Officials encourage students and parents to report any suspicious activities or concerns immediately to school administrators or law enforcement.
Recent Gun-Related Incidents in St. Lucie County
This incident follows other recent firearm-related events in the area. A notable incident involved a 79-year-old man who tragically died from a stray bullet in Fort Pierce. Additionally, surveillance video recently captured a man near another deadly shooting in St. Lucie County carrying two firearms. Community concerns were also heightened after authorities seized guns and ammunition in Fort Pierce following presidential threats.
These incidents have heightened community concerns about gun safety and enforcement efforts in the area.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The community has expressed concern over the safety of students and staff at local schools. Parents and residents are urging school officials and law enforcement to continue strengthening security measures.
The investigation into the Fort Pierce Westwood High School incident remains ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Pierce Westwood High School Gun Incident
What happened at Fort Pierce Westwood High School?
A student was arrested after school officials found a loaded 9mm gun in his backpack. The incident occurred during a routine administrative investigation on May 5, 2025.
Are there metal detectors at Fort Pierce Westwood High School?
Currently, Fort Pierce Westwood High School relies on school resource officers and administrative checks rather than metal detectors. Security measures are consistently reviewed and updated.
Can students be expelled for bringing guns to school in St. Lucie County?
Yes, students who bring firearms to school face severe consequences, including arrest and expulsion recommendations based on the Student Code of Conduct.
How often do gun incidents occur in St. Lucie County schools?
Gun incidents in St. Lucie County schools are rare. However, authorities take every incident seriously, enforcing strict policies to maintain student safety. Recently, a young Fort Pierce student was arrested for cyberthreats in Port St. Lucie, highlighting the vigilance of local authorities.
Where can parents report safety concerns at Fort Pierce Westwood High School?
Parents and students can report safety concerns directly to school administrators or school resource officers. Immediate reporting helps ensure quick responses and safety.
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Earlier, authorities also seized two firearms in Fort Pierce after threats were made against President Trump, further underscoring the importance of community awareness and reporting.
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