A terrifying moment at a Virginia elementary school has landed two parents arrested after a loaded gun was accidentally discharged inside their child’s backpack. According to authorities, the incident unfolded just before 11 a.m. at Lee Hills Elementary School, sparking panic but leaving no injuries.
The parents, identified as Ciara Armstead, 36, and Terrance Carroll Jr., 34, were arrested on charges of child endangerment and allowing a child access to firearms, the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a press release reported by the New York Daily News.
How the Gun Went Off in the Student’s Bookbag: What Police Discovered
Investigators say the child found the unsecured firearm at home and placed it in his bookbag before leaving for school. Once inside the classroom, the child reportedly reached into the bag to grab something and “inadvertently pulled the trigger on the gun,” authorities revealed.
Thankfully, the situation didn’t turn tragic. Major Elizabeth Scott of the Sheriff’s Office said the classroom teacher swiftly evacuated all 26 students while the school resource officer responded to the scene.
“There were no injuries to staff or students. Further investigation revealed the child did not intend to harm anyone.”
Authorities said the gun was unsecured and easily accessible in the family’s home, leading to the charges against the parents.
Charges Filed Against Virginia Parents After Gun Goes Off in Son’s Bookbag
Following the investigation, Spotsylvania Sheriff Rodger L. Harris stated that the child would not face criminal charges. However, the child’s parents weren’t as fortunate. Both Armstead and Carroll Jr. were arrested Monday evening. They face serious charges including:
- Child Endangerment
- Allowing Access to Firearms by Children
Both parents cooperated with investigators and were released on a $5,000 bond the following day.
Conclusion: Gun Safety Takes Center Stage After Virginia Parents Arrested
This case of Virginia parents arrested after the gun goes off in their son’s bookbag is a chilling reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike when firearms are left unsecured. While no one was hurt, the emotional toll on the community and the legal consequences for the parents are undeniable.