UPDATE: Student suspended for year after bringing loaded gun to Jacksonville school, system says

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) - Authorities say a loaded gun was found on a student in a school still grieving after a child was murdered there a year ago.

Onslow County Schools say the gun was discovered Thursday at Northside High School after suspicious activity was spotted near a restroom.

“As required by state law (§ 115C-390.10. 365-day suspension for gun possession.), a student who brings or possesses a firearm or destructive device on school property or at a school-sponsored event must be suspended for 365 days. OCS will be following this statute,” the school system said.

In a note sent to parents, Principal Brad Staley said a school resource officer and both assistant principals brought the students involved to the office.

During a search, Staley said one student was found with a gun and numerous vapes.

The principal said police took the student into custody and no one was threatened or harmed in any way.

The school system confirmed that clear backpacks are being used this year at the school but said that this student has a condition that requires them to carry additional supplies.

We’re told the gun and vapes were found inside this smaller bag that is inside their clear backpack.

Police Chief Mike Yaniero told WITN that his department is consulting with the district attorney and juvenile authorities to ensure the proper petitions and/or criminal charges are filed.

The chief said at this point “there is no evidence to indicate anyone is currently at risk or was or is being targeted.” He said if anyone has information of a list or a specific threat, they should call police at 910-455-4000.

Last September, 17-year-old Saddique Melvin was stabbed to death in a second-floor hallway at Northside by another student. That student was initially charged with with voluntary manslaughter, assault with a deadly weapon, assault on a school official, and possess a weapon on school campus/property. Because of his age, Onslow County authorities never released the outcome of any action taken against the teenager.

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