Riverview, FL – A 16-year-old student at Spoto High School was arrested Tuesday morning after deputies discovered a loaded handgun inside his backpack, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
The incident occurred around 11:15 a.m. on October 14, 2025, after school administrators and a school resource deputy received a tip that the student might be armed. Deputies made contact with the student and conducted a search of his belongings.
Inside the backpack, officers found a pistol with a loaded magazine containing seven 9mm rounds, though there was no round in the chamber at the time.
Sheriff Chad Chronister praised the swift actions of staff and law enforcement, saying their quick response “stopped a potentially dangerous situation before anyone was harmed.” He emphasized that “weapons will never be tolerated in our schools” and urged parents to talk to their children about the risks and consequences of bringing weapons to campus.
The student was charged with possession of a weapon on school grounds. The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains active, and additional updates will be released as available.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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