Maryland high school witnesses 10 fights and student found with handgun
Multiple Fights and Loaded Gun Incident Shake Maryland High School
A Maryland high school near Washington, D.C. experienced a chaotic week, with at least ten fights erupting in a single day. The situation escalated further when a student was caught with a loaded handgun just two days later.
The string of fights occurred on Tuesday, followed by the gun incident on Thursday at Charles Herbert Flowers High School. School administrators launched an investigation into the incidents.
In a letter to parents, the school revealed that a student had been found in possession of a loaded handgun. Another student had let them in through a side door, but school security quickly intervened and conducted a search.
Fortunately, no students or staff members were harmed or directly threatened during the handgun incident.
An 18-year-old male suspect was arrested by the police in connection with the gun incident. He now faces several charges, including carrying a loaded handgun.
#NEW a @pgcps Flowers HS parent told me they’re glad they didn’t send their child today. School letter says a student entered the building w/a loaded handgun – let in a side door by another student but immediately stopped. No injuries. Comes after 10 fights reported Tuesday. https://t.co/30s20qj3e9 pic.twitter.com/mK11Aiiewr
— Stephanie Ramirez (@RamirezReports) December 21, 2023
Assistant Principal Diedra Smalis Screws emphasized the importance of discussing the severe consequences, such as expulsion, with students who bring weapons or anything resembling a weapon to school. She urged parents to encourage their children to immediately report any sightings of weapons or suspicious objects to staff members or trusted adults.
The gun incident followed a series of ten fights that broke out at the school just two days earlier.
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One of the fights, captured on video and shared on social media, showed a large brawl in a school hallway with numerous students as spectators. Another scuffle took place outside and was also recorded.
The school sent a letter to parents on Wednesday, addressing the concerning series of altercations that had occurred.
.@pgcps confirms 10 FIGHTS took place at Charles E. Flowers HS yesterday. Several videos posted under the account “flowerssrampage” show the chaos. Several parents blamed the fighting on the absence of their principal, who his union confirmed, was JUST reinstated today.
🧵 pic.twitter.com/zMz8kF9xfq— Stephanie Ramirez (@RamirezReports) December 21, 2023
The school assured parents that they were in contact with the families of those involved in the incidents and were taking necessary actions to ensure safety within the school.
The assistant principal emphasized that the incidents did not align with the school’s values and standards. She called for collaboration in guiding students towards better decision-making and fostering a school climate that values cooperation and understanding.
According to some parents, students from other schools were allowed into the building by fellow students, contributing to the fights. Some altercations were triggered by minor issues, such as one student stepping on another’s shoes. Tensions between groups of students from different neighborhoods also played a role.
“They’re fighting outside in the parking lot where the school buses are,” expressed a concerned parent to Fox 5. “Like, where’s leadership? Where’s security?”
It remains unclear whether any students sustained injuries during the fights.
Parents attributed the fights to the absence of the school’s principal, Dr. Gorman Brown, who had been placed on administrative leave in October for undisclosed reasons.
Brown was reinstated on Wednesday and is expected to return after the Christmas break, as confirmed by the executive director of the Prince George’s County principals union.
Since the return to in-person learning after the COVID pandemic, school discipline has become a growing concern in schools nationwide.
What can schools, parents, and the community do together to prevent future incidents and ensure the well-being of students
Have been circulating on social media. I’m working on the story and will have a live report @ 4:30 & 6. pic.twitter.com/U7VzF88hzm
— FOX 5 DC (@fox5dc) May 19, 2021
Following the incident, the school held a meeting with parents to address their concerns and to discuss steps that will be taken to ensure the safety of students.
However, some parents expressed their dissatisfaction with the school’s response to the violence. They called for stronger security measures, such as increased police presence and stricter enforcement of disciplinary actions. They also emphasized the need for open communication between the school and parents regarding the incidents occurring on campus.
In response to the multiple fights and the loaded gun incident, the Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) released a statement condemning the violence and assuring the community that they are taking the matter seriously. They highlighted the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff.
PGCPS stated that they are working closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate the incidents and bring the responsible individuals to justice. They also affirmed their commitment to providing a safe and secure learning environment for all students.
The incidents at Charles Herbert Flowers High School raise concerns about the safety of students in schools across the country. It is crucial for schools to have effective safety protocols in place and for students and staff to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
Parents play a vital role in ensuring the safety of their children by having open conversations about the importance of reporting any potential threats or sightings of weapons. Schools must also foster an environment where students feel comfortable speaking up and seek help when needed.
The incidents at Charles Herbert Flowers High School serve as a reminder of the need for continuous efforts to address violence and maintain a safe learning environment for all students. It is imperative for schools, parents, and the community to work together to prevent future incidents and ensure the well-being of students.
Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to safety, schools can strive to create an environment where students can focus on their education without fear or disruption.
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