Gun found in student’s backpack at Shahala Middle School; no one injured

Staff at Shahala Middle School found a handgun in a student’s backpack Monday, according to a letter sent home to parents from the school’s principal.

No students or staff members were injured, and staff confiscated the weapon. The student has not been identified.

The Vancouver Police Department conducted an investigation in conjunction with Evergreen school district security staff.

The letter sent home to parents said the weapon was confiscated “within minutes of the notification” that a weapon was in the school, 601 S.E. 192nd Ave.

“We know that incidents like this are highly concerning,” Shahala Principal Gregg Brown said in the letter. “Please know we take these situations very seriously, and the safety of our students and staff is a priority in Evergreen Public Schools and here at Shahala Middle School.”

The letter added that per state law, any student who brings a firearm onto campus will be expelled.

The Vancouver Police Department is continuing to investigate.