Friday, February 22, 2019

From the Office of the Superintendent

Tuscaloosa County School System

On Thursday, February 21, Collins-Riverside Middle School administration received information that a student may have had a gun at school. Law enforcement immediately became involved, and the student who was reported to have the gun was secured by school administrators and law enforcement. A thorough search of campus produced no evidence of a gun. When interviewed more thoroughly, the students who initially reported the information later said they had not seen a gun. Safety protocols were put in place, and school was able to continue with minimal disruption. There was no evidence or report of a threat to students or faculty/staff.

At the end of the school day, two additional students came forward and reported they had seen a gun. As the investigation continued, CRMS parents were made aware of the situation through an automated call from school administration. They were also told that if they chose to keep their students home Friday, the absence would be excused.

Late in the evening, law enforcement uncovered information that led them to locate a handgun outside the school building.

The student involved is not at school. Under Tuscaloosa County School System policy, bringing a gun to school carries consequences that could lead to expulsion. There may also be legal ramifications for those involved.

There is still no belief that there was ever intent to threaten students or faculty/staff. Information obtained indicates the student brought the gun to school in an attempt to sell it.

The staff at Collins-Riverside is to be commended on their handling of this situation. The safety protocols that are in place were followed and resulted in minimal disruption in the school day. The Tuscaloosa County School System is deeply grateful to the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office for their tireless efforts to keep our students safe and assist in any such matters until there is a successful resolution. We also want to thank The University of Alabama Police Department who provided the assistance of their K-9 units that are trained to search for weapons.