A scary situation unfolded at an Ohio elementary school after an 8-year-old student was found with a loaded gun—leading to criminal charges against the child’s mother.
Police in Kent, Ohio say the incident happened around 12:30 p.m. on April 2 at Longcoy Elementary School. The situation came to light when a student alerted a teacher after spotting what appeared to be a gun tucked into a classmate’s waistband during recess.
That quick-thinking move may have prevented something much worse.
School staff immediately stepped in and located a loaded 9mm handgun inside the child’s backpack. The weapon was safely secured, and thankfully, no one was injured.
Investigators say the child had easy access to the firearm at home and intentionally brought it to school, though the reason why remains unclear.
The child’s mother, 34-year-old Gloria Luster, was arrested and charged with child endangerment, a first-degree misdemeanor, according to police.
Authorities praised the student who spoke up, calling their actions brave and critical in keeping everyone safe.
“See something, say something,” officials emphasized, reminding parents to properly secure all firearms and ammunition—especially in homes with children.
School officials also moved quickly to reassure families.
In a message to parents, the district superintendent confirmed that the situation was handled swiftly and that all students and staff were safe. The weapon was immediately turned over to police, and an investigation is ongoing.
The school has also launched its own internal review, though details remain limited due to the involvement of a minor.