DURHAM, NC (Tuesday, April 30, 2024) –  Deputies responded to City of Medicine Academy earlier today after a student was found to be in possession of a firearm on campus.   The weapon was located after school administration was made aware of an alleged social media post threatening another student.  The juvenile was approached by administrators and they conducted a search of the student’s bookbag. Inside a 9mm semi-automatic handgun was located.  

A juvenile petition was acquired by the Durham County Sheriff’s Office on charges of Possession of a Firearm on Campus, Possession of a Firearm by a minor and Resist Delay and Obstruct Arrest.   The juvenile has since been released to the custody of their parents.   

Sheriff Clarence F. Birkhead stated, “It concerns me that our young people are not getting the message that solving problems with violence is the answer, and that so many young people have ready access to firearms.”  He continued, “I implore anyone who has children living in or visiting their homes regularly to take every precaution to secure all firearms so that young people cannot do harm to themselves or others.  It is every gun owners responsibility to properly secure firearms and to report any lost or stolen weapons immediately to law enforcement.”  

Due to the age of the individuals involved in this incident no further information will be released.