“There is no longer a threat to the school,” said Saint John’s police officer. Sean Rocca said Friday afternoon after the lockdown was lifted.
He later said an imitation weapon was found near the scene of the teenager’s arrest.
The teenager was taken into custody and charged with possession of a weapon for a purpose dangerous to public peace. He was released on condition that he appear in court on June 1.
No one was injured in the incident, which brought police to the school in East Saint John at about 11:15 p.m. following reports of an armed man.
Police searched the school and at 12:17 pm spotted the boy running away from the building.
Police searched the school and at around 12:17 pm they located the 15-year-old who was the subject of the complaints. (Shane Fowler / CBC)
Police remained briefly at the school, which has about 820 students, according to the Simonds website.
Rocca did not say what kind of firearm was found at the scene, but did warn the public of an earlier warning about the dangers of counterfeit firearms, including airsoft, BB and pellet firearms.
“Imitation firearms can pose serious security concerns for the public and the police,” the warning said. “Some imitation weapons are almost indistinguishable from a real firearm, especially from a distance, with a quick glance or in high stress situations.”
The Anglophone South School District said in a message to parents on Friday afternoon that all students and staff were safe after the lockdown.
The district said additional guidance counselors will be on site Friday afternoon for those students who need additional support.
“We thank the Police Force of Agios Ioannis for their prompt response and investigation,” the district said in a message to the families.
