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Gun found in backpack of 8-year-old at Brooklyn elementary school: police
By
Charles Lane
Published Mar 7, 2024
Modified Mar 7, 2024
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New York City Public Schools via Facebook
By
Charles Lane
Published Mar 7, 2024
Modified Mar 7, 2024
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An 8-year-old boy allegedly threatened another 8-year-old boy with an unloaded pistol at an elementary school in Brooklyn on Thursday, an NYPD spokesperson said.
Police responded to a 911 call at 400 Ashford St. — the location of P.S. 158 — in East New York on Thursday morning, according to the spokesperson. Officers found an unloaded Taurus .380 gun in the first boy’s backpack.
NYPD officials said the boy may have been responding to threats made by the other boy earlier this week. There were no arrests or injuries.
The city Education Department said letters were being sent to families informing them of the incident.
“Guns have absolutely no place in the hands of our young people, and this incident is a deeply concerning example of the consequences of the proliferation of guns in our society and in our city," DOE spokesperson Jenna Lyle said in an email. "It’s extremely worrying when a child this young has access to such a dangerous weapon, and we are grateful for the partnership of our school communities in keeping our young people safe each day."
Lyle continued, "All safety procedures were followed in response to this incident, and all students and staff are safe. We’re working closely with NYPD and ACS follow-up actions, and to ensure this young person receives they supports they need.”
Police said they’re investigating the incident and asking the first boy’s parents where the gun came from.
Phil Corso contributed reporting.
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education
public safety
Charles Lane
Charles is a Day-of reporter focused on breaking news and enterprise. He’s very friendly and can be reached at [email protected], or more securely on whatsapp/signal 631-295-6715
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