15-year-old West Hempstead student found with loaded gun in locker

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A teen is being accused of bringing a loaded firearm to school in Nassau County on Monday.

Officers responded to West Hempstead High School located at 400 Nassau Boulevard around 2 p.m. for a report of the recovered weapon.

According to detectives, the incident came after a 15-year-old male juvenile was involved in an altercation with a Hempstead High School student last week.

School officials were subsequently alerted to search the boy's locker and discovered the firearm inside his bookbag.

Staff members detained the student until police arrived on scene and he was placed into custody without incident.

He will be charged with criminal possession of a weapon when he is arraigned on Tuesday in the Youth Section of First District Court in Hempstead.

In a letter to the district, Superintendent of Schools Daniel Rehman said:

I am writing to make you aware of a serious incident that occurred at West Hempstead Secondary School this afternoon around dismissal time. These are the facts we know so far:

Based on information reported to a school administrator regarding a potential safety concern, the district initiated its security protocol to address the matter. During the investigation, school administrators and the school security team discovered a loaded firearm in the possession of an individual on District premises. We immediately safeguarded the weapon, ensured the individual was under supervision and contacted the Nassau County Police Department who were on site within minutes. Regardless of intent, bringing a weapon onto school grounds places everyone at risk and will be treated with the utmost seriousness.

We cannot share additional details due to Federal and New York State privacy laws. The District is addressing the matter in accordance with District Policy and is cooperating fully with law enforcement.

As your superintendent, an educator, and a parent myself, I know today's incident is deeply concerning and troubling. I understand the anxiety and concern this may cause for students and families throughout our community. I want you to know that the safety and security of our students and staff remains our highest priority. While we are grateful that this situation was brought to our attention and resolved swiftly, we will use this incident as an opportunity to review our existing procedures and evaluate any additional measures that may further strengthen the safety of our schools.

Out of an abundance of caution, the Nassau County Police Department will have an increased presence on campus tomorrow. Additionally, our counseling and support staff will be available to assist any student who may be feeling upset or anxious about today's events.

I want to thank the individuals involved in reporting the incident, as well as the administrators, security personnel and law enforcement officers who responded quickly and professionally. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder that school safety is a shared responsibility. While today's events are deeply unsettling, they also demonstrate the importance of reporting concerns and responding immediately. We remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining a safe, secure and supportive learning environment for every student and staff member, and we will continue to take every step necessary to protect our school community.

We are committed to keeping you informed and will share additional information as it becomes available and as privacy laws allow.