Crime & Safety
Gun 'Rumor' Brings Police Hazelwood West High School
Word around school Thursday was that a student was going to bring a gun to school on Friday, Aug. 30. The school's administration caught wind and had police ready Friday morning to search book-bags.
Updated Article at 9:15 a.m.
Email have flown into Patch's email inbox Friday morning about a heavy police presence at Hazelwood West High School.
Early on police could only say they were investigating some information provided to school's staff. But Susan Buckman in the Hazelwood School District's communications office has revealed more details.
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"There was a rumor that another student was going to bring a gun to school," she said. "So police were being proactive this morning and checking backpacks as students arrived today."
Dennis Newall, the school's principal, sent an email to parents this morning.
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In it, he said staff learned about the rumor Thursday night.
"Last night we were made aware of a rumor by one of our students that another student was planning to bring a weapon to school," he said. "We take all rumors seriously when it involves the potential safety of our students and staff."We began to investigate the matter immediately."
Newall said due to the seriousness of the rumor, it was decided that random backpack checks were the best precaution.
"We work very hard to create a culture in which students, staff members, and parents feel comfortable alerting the principal or other school officials when they see or hear anything that causes concern," he said. "I am very proud of the student who reported the rumor that a weapon may be brought on campus and the staff members who worked quickly to notify us of the issue."
Newall also reminded parents to encourage their children to report any information of concern.
"As a parent, you can help us maintain safe schools by encouraging your children to share this type of information with you or an adult at their school," he said. "It is very important for all of us to keep an open line of communication and share crucial information."
Patch will provide an update as more information becomes available.
Original Article
There was a large police presence on the campus of Hazelwood West High School Friday morning.
Details have not been released on the situation, but according to the Hazelwood Police Department, officers were sent to the school for to investigate a situation regarding information provided to school staff.
Patch will provide an update as more information becomes available.
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