Plaza student reports handgun

The Platte County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating an incident involving a student who had a handgun in a backpack at Plaza Middle School.

The handgun was located upon the student’s arrival at the school on Tuesday, Oct. 4, based on a report from another student.

The student, a 12-year-old male, was taken into custody and the school was placed on a security hold at approximately 7:30 a.m. and released by 8:20 a.m.

Currently there is no threat to the school or any students or staff.

“I applaud the student who brought this incident to light,” said sheriff Mark Owen. “We encourage students to report anything that poses a threat to school staff or the school resource officer. Protecting our schools not only takes a good relationship between the school district and law enforcement but also involves the students, parents, and the community. The quick response of our School Resource Officers and the Park Hill School District staff allowed us to resolve this incident while safeguarding the students and staff.”

In August, a 13-year-old boy was taken into custody at Lakeview Middle School after a handgun was found in his locker.