TAMPA, Fla. – Freedom High School was briefly placed on lockdown this morning after a student reported seeing another student possibly armed with a gun. The Tampa Police Department responded to the school just before 9:30 a.m. following the report.
Upon investigation, it was determined that the student in question was carrying a cell phone case with a replica handgun attached. The student did not make any threats towards the school or any individuals.
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“We understand that news like this is deeply concerning and can cause anxiety for parents and the entire community,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Thankfully, in this case, there was no active threat. We appreciate the swift action of the student and teacher in reporting this concern. Their actions are a testament to the importance of ‘See Something, Say Something.’ We urge all parents to take this opportunity to talk with your children about school safety, what is appropriate to bring to school, and the importance of reporting anything that seems suspicious.”
In response to the initial report, multiple officers were deployed to the school, including the Tampa Police Aviation Unit. The school was placed on “lockout” status while officers conducted a thorough search of the campus and surrounding area.
The incident remains under investigation, and charges may be filed.
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