This morning, October 25th, 2024, approximately 8:40 a.m., a Central High School Staff discovered a loaded firearm in a jacket left behind by a student in a classroom. Central Staff alerted the School Resource Officer who, along with other members of the police department responded immediately. The firearm was secured, and the 16-year-old student was contacted and taken into custody. They have been charged with possession of a firearm in a school, possession of dangerous weapon by person under 18yrs, carry concealed weapon, and possession of THC with an enhancer for possessing in a school. This remains an active investigation.
Possession of firearm in school – 948.605(2)
Carry concealed weapon – 941.23
Possession of dangerous weapon by person under 18 – 948.60(2)
Possession of THC – 961.41(3g)(e)/Possession of THC in a school – 961.495 (enhancer)
School safety is a top priority both for the La Crosse Police Department and School District of La Crosse. Our partnership and the safety protocols that were followed, allowed for a quick response ensuring students and staff remained safe.
We continue to encourage parents, guardians, and family members to have conversations with your students and empower them to "speak up and speak out " about information and incidents that may impact our school community. Tips can be reported through https://speakup.widoj.gov/ or La Crosse Area Crime Stoppers at 608-784-TIPS. You can also submit concerns and information online at https://www.p3tips.com/459 or download the Crime Stoppers APP P3 to submit a tip via your phone.
