Rocky Mount, VA – (BTW21) Authorities are investigating an incident at Franklin County High School after a firearm was discovered on campus early this morning.
The Franklin County Sheriff's Office is working in collaboration with the Franklin County Public Schools and the Rocky Mount Police Department to assess the situation, ensuring the safety and security of students and staff.
According to a message released by Franklin County Public Schools, the school entered into a “shelter-in-place” protocol for approximately thirty minutes while a police investigation was conducted.
The shelter-in-place was initiated after a handgun was found on the school grounds.
A student was taken into custody in connection with the incident, though further details regarding the individual’s identity or the circumstances surrounding the firearm's discovery have not yet been released.
Franklin County Public Schools issued the following statement to parents:
"Franklin County High School entered into a ‘shelter-in-place’ stance for approximately thirty minutes this morning to allow for a police investigation after a handgun was discovered on campus. A student was taken into custody, and there will be additional police presence at the school for the remainder of the day. Franklin County Public Schools would like to thank the Franklin County Sheriff's Office and the Rocky Mount Police Department for their quick and thorough response to this incident. As always, the safety and security of our students and employees remain the top priority for the school division and local law enforcement."
Following the resolution of the immediate concern, police will continue their investigation, and school officials have assured the community that measures are in place to keep the campus safe throughout the remainder of the school day.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to reach out to the school’s administration if they have any questions or concerns regarding the incident.
The investigation is ongoing, and additional information will be shared as it becomes available.