Authorities say the incident happened around 10:50 a.m. when a handgun went off while inside a student’s backpack. Early interviews indicate the student did not intend to harm anyone, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
The classroom teacher immediately evacuated all 26 students and alerted the School Resource Officer stationed at the school. Thankfully, no students or staff were injured during the incident.
Detectives are in the early stages of a preliminary investigation and are interviewing the student involved and the student’s parents.
“We will make you aware of all pertinent facts concerning the incident as we progress,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
The school sits about three miles from the Spotsylvania Medical Center. This is a developing story. Check back for updates.