Hamden Police - News Release
DATE: 10/05/21
CONTACT: Sean J. Dolan – Public Information Officer
PHONE: 203-230-4065
PIO #: 21-119
On 10/05/21 at approximately 1:00 PM, Hamden Police responded to Hamden High School to assist school administrators and the School Resource Officer with a weapon investigation.
The preliminary investigation revealed that school officials obtained information that a 17-year-old student was in possession of a handgun over the weekend. For precautionary measures, the student was brought to the principal’s office by school administrators and school security. A stay in place order was given by school officials while police were investigating.
Officers on scene were trained in crisis intervention and used de-escalation techniques to help diffuse the situation when the student became uncooperative. The student ultimately complied with police and was taken into police custody without incident. A loaded .45 caliber handgun was recovered in the student’s backpack.
The 17-year-old juvenile from Hamden was charged with Carrying a Pistol without a Permit, Possession of a Weapon on School Grounds, Reckless Endangerment 2nd Degree and Breach of Peace 2nd Degree.
An Order to Detain was approved by the courts for the juvenile. The juvenile was taken to Juvenile Detention in Bridgeport. Detectives are assisting with the investigation regarding the firearm that was seized.
The Hamden Police Department encourages anyone with information regarding weapons or student safety to always come forward with the information. Today serves as an important reminder of the collaboration efforts between the community, the Board of Education and the Hamden Police Department to help keep the public and our student population safe.
Hamden Police will have an increased presence at Hamden High School in the days ahead. School officials will also have a crisis team available for students and staff that have any concerns related to this incident.