ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – An 11-year-old student at Mill Creek Academy in St. Johns County brought a loaded gun onto their school bus this morning, prompting an immediate response from school officials and law enforcement.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the student was removed from the bus as soon as it arrived at school, and the firearm was secured. Authorities and the school district are currently investigating the incident.
Paul Abbatinozzi, chief of staff for St. Johns County Schools, spoke with News4Jax about how the situation was handled. He credited the quick reporting by students for preventing any harm.
“The important part is that those students reported it immediately when they got off the bus,” Abbatinozzi said. “There was a period during the bus ride when students became aware, and then the reporting happened. It was handled timely on the school site.”
When asked about the disciplinary action for the student involved, Abbatinozzi said the student will be suspended for several days. During this time, the district will conduct a review to determine if additional consequences are necessary.
“This situation will garner a school suspension which will be for a period of days. During that period, there will be a district-level review for potential additional consequences. It’s one of our most serious breaches of conduct,” he said.
The school district also emphasized that the school administrative office is available to answer any questions from parents. Additional support through social services will be provided for students who may need it.
News4Jax has reached out to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office for the incident report and to inquire about any pending charges against the student or their parents.
A spokesperson shared that it’s an active investigation.