Rockville Centre school, police officials say a weapon was recovered from a student at South Side H.S.

Rockville Centre school and police officials say they recovered a weapon from a South Side High School student on Friday afternoon, after receiving an anonymous tip after dismissal. 

UPDATED ON FEB. 4, 2023 

In a letter that was sent to parents in the Rockville Centre School District, Superintendent Matthew Gaven explained that the building administration and director of security were able to locate the student in question and secured the weapon before police arrived to take control of the situation.  

“We will continue fully cooperating with the Rockville Centre Police Department's investigation and will take appropriate and swift disciplinary action,” Gaven said in the letter. “No students were harmed and please know that students in after school activities are safe in the building.”

Rockville Centre Police Department confirmed that a weapon was found at the school and that they were notified of the incident. 

“The suspect was taken into custody and arrested,” a village spokesperson said. “While this matter is under investigation it would be inappropriate to comment further.” 

“In response to an anonymous report, our administrative team, including our Director of Security, executed the steps of our safety plan in collaboration with the Rockville Centre Police Department,” Rockville Centre Superintendent Matthew Gaven said in an email. “As a result, the situation was resolved safely and professionally to ensure the well-being of our students and faculty.  We are greatly appreciative of the support and guidance of the Rockville Centre Police Department.” 

Nassau County Police detectives report that a 14-year-old juvenile was taken into custody following reports that a weapon was found in his backpack. Upon arrival, NCPD officers recovered an unregistered, unloaded firearm with no magazine or ammunition. No injuries were reported. 

The juvenile is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, criminal possession of a firearm on school grounds, and criminal possession of a weapon. 

He was later released on an appearance ticket and is due back at Family Court on Thursday, Feb. 8.