Student detained after firearm found in backpack at Bonneville Elementary School
Sep 16, 2025, 10:21 AM
FILE — An Alpine School District bus is pictured in American Fork on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024. (Isaac Hale, Deseret News)
(Isaac Hale, Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY – A student was detained after they were found with a firearm in their backpack at Bonneville Elementary School Monday, according to the Alpine School District.
Rich Stowell, director of communications for the district, said school officials found the firearm – with no ammunition – in the student’s backpack after another student reported it to school staff.
Stowell said the student was immediately detained.
According to the district, the school’s principal notified staff of the situation “shortly before noon,” then notified the school community at approximately 1:45 p.m. The following message was sent to parents who had students at the school:
This morning, a student brought a firearm to our school. Another student immediately reported it to a staff member, allowing us to quickly secure the weapon and contact law enforcement. No admmunition was found with the firearm, and it is now in the possession of Orem Police Department, who is leading the investigation. The student is currently in custody and no longer on campus.
In situations like this, we follow strict threat assessment procedures designed to protect our students and staff. These procedures include a thorough review of any potential risks to others. You can learn more about Alpine School District procedures on the Safety and Security webpage.
Please remember that bringing a firearm–real or facsimile–to school violates both district policy and state law. We are grateful to the student who spoke up and reported their concern so quickly.
The safety of your children is our highest priority. If you have queestions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Stowell noted the timing of the messages was aligned with the district’s protocol.
“We are proud of how the school administration handled the situation, and it will be a model of effective communication in the future,” Stowell said.
No injuries were reported, and no further information was immediately available.
This is a breaking news story. It may be updated.
