Officials deal with unloaded gun found at Petal Middle School

PINE BELT, Miss. (WDAM) - The superintendent of the Petal School District confirmed in a statement that a Petal Middle School student was found carrying an unloaded gun in his backpack Thursday.

Petal School District Superintendent Dr. Matthew Dillion said in a statement that the student was not carrying a gun magazine or ammunition in the backpack.

Dillon said PSD administrators, Petal School Police and local law enforcement “were immediately notified.”

Dillon said the incident posed “no immediate threat or danger to students, faculty or staff.”

Citing privacy laws, Dill said the statement that he could not discuss any specific punishments the student may face.

But Dillion did say that the student “will face maximum consequences as allowable by both district policy and law enforcement.

“The safety and security of our students, faculty and staff remains our top priority. We appreciate your continued support and trust in our leadership.”

The same statement was sent to middle school parents late Thursday afternoon.

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