La Porte County, IN – A high school prom event in Kingsford Heights was interrupted Friday evening after a man was allegedly found carrying a handgun inside the school gymnasium.
According to the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred April 25 during Central High School’s “Prom Grand March,” which drew an estimated 1,000 attendees. The event was open to the public, with guests introducing prom attendees as they entered.
Authorities said a parent noticed a man openly carrying a handgun on his hip and immediately reported it to Detective Derrick Deck, who was attending the event. Deck quickly located the individual and safely removed the firearm without incident.
The man was identified as 41-year-old Joshua A. O’Dor of Kingsford Heights. He was escorted from the gymnasium to the school’s main office, where responding deputies took custody of the weapon, identified as a .40 caliber Glock 23 Gen 4.
Deputy Patrick Wedor later transported O’Dor to the La Porte County Jail, where he was arrested on a charge of possession of a firearm on school property, a Level 6 felony. He was released later that evening after posting bond.
According to officials, no injuries were reported, and the event continued after the situation was secured.
Administrative Captain Derek J. Allen credited the reporting parent for helping prevent a potentially dangerous situation. “This is a shining example of ‘see something, say something,’” Allen said, emphasizing the importance of vigilance at public events.
Authorities remind the public that all charges are allegations, and O’Dor is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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