Deputies were called to Cherrydale Elementary just after 10 a.m., and upon further investigation, investigators learned that the student was overheard by another student talking about having a gun, according to Lt. Ryan Flood.
The information was immediately reported to the student’s teacher, who, in turn, alerted the school administration. School Officials conducted a search of the backpack and the gun was found. Deputies observed the empty gun but also noted an unattached magazine with ammunition inside. The student made no reported threats. No one was hurt.
“A situation like this is certainly scary on many fronts; however, I commend the young student who reported this information and praise the staff’s swift action for notifying law enforcement and all the proper channels to ensure everyone at the school was safe, and the weapon was accounted for,” Sheriff Hobart Lewis said. “This is a prime example of seeing something, saying something.”
Due to the student's age, its information will not be released; however, the student is being charged with Possession of a Weapon on School Property. The child was turned over to their guardian and not taken into custody.
The school was put on hold during the search. The hold was lifted at 11:40 a.m., according to Greenville County Schools.