SMITH COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) — A Smith County high school student was arrested Thursday after being "found to be in possession of a BB gun that closely resembled a handgun," according to the school system.
A press release from the Smith County School System said the weapon was discovered by a fellow student Thursday and was immediately reported to a teacher. After school staff detained the student, law enforcement was quickly notified and arrested the student. As of publication, they remain in custody.
"We are incredibly grateful for the quick thinking and prompt actions of teachers and law enforcement involved in ensuring the safety of our school. The execution of our safety plan was perfection," director Barry H. Smith said in the release. "The cooperation and alertness shown today helped prevent a potentially dangerous situation from escalating."
In a separate incident, another student also claimed to be in possession of a weapon. However, Smith County officials said after a thorough search, no other weapons were found on school grounds.
"We understand the impact that incidents like this can have on our school community," Smith added. "We want to reassure our parents and students that we take this matter very seriously. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority. The Smith County Board of Education will not tolerate any behavior that threatens the well-being of our schools. Any student found in possession of a weapon or making threats involving weapons will face the fullest consequences under the law and district policy."
Counselors will be available at Gordonville High School Friday to provide support and counseling for students impacted by Thursday's events.
Smith County officials added the investigation into this incident is active and ongoing, which is why only general information has been released. Notifying parents during ongoing incidents is not always possible, they added, "and doing so prematurely could jeopardize the safety of everyone involved."