OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — A 17-year-old male student was arrested following an altercation at Omaha North High School on Thursday just after noon, according to Omaha Police.
In a letter addressed to staff and families, Omaha North High School Principal Collette L. Nero said the altercation happened between two students. Staff and the school's student resource officer (SRO) immediately intervened.
During the investigation, an involved student left the building and an SRO followed and took the student into custody. Law enforcement then confirmed the individual had a gun.
Omaha North High School says it will "continue to work with the family of the student involved and will take appropriate disciplinary action."
The Associated Press reports that the 17-year-old boy would be booked and held at the Douglas County Youth Center.
A senior at Omaha North told 3 News Now that this is not the first time this week that a weapon has been found on a student this week.
"I wouldn't say it's normal but you kind of expect it," said student Jon Lucas. "I think it's the environment that I'm in that you just kind of get used to that stuff. It's actually kind of sad but hopefully, it'll change but you never know."
A letter sent to parents on Jan. 10 confirms that "Two knives and a BB gun ... Yesterday, in a separate incident staff located a knife in a student’s possession."
Lucas also mentioned that fights happen daily and that teachers have told him it was the case at all area high schools.
3 News Now is reaching out to the Omaha Police Department to confirm if there have been any police reports filed from incidents at Omaha North High School.
Early reports from authorities said the altercation was between an SRO and a student, but that has since been updated.
READ THE LETTER FROM THE OMAHA NORTH PRINCIPAL:
Dear North High Staff and Families,
We want to make you aware of a situation that occurred today. An altercation occurred between two students. Our staff and SRO intervened immediately. During the investigation, a student involved left the building. Our SRO followed and took the student into custody. At that time, law enforcement confirmed the individual had a gun in their possession.
We take these matters very seriously. We are working with our District Safety Office, law enforcement partners and our on-site security team to ensure the safety of our school environment. We continue to work with the family of the student involved and will take appropriate disciplinary action. We are sharing this message to ensure open communication with our families. The safety of students and staff is our top priority. We appreciate your continued help guiding students to use good judgment in their actions for their safety and the safety of others.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact North High at (531) 299- 2700.
Thank you for your continued support of North High and Omaha Public Schools.
Sincerely,
Collette L. Nero, Ph.D.
Principal
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