Marana teen in custody after gun found in backpack at elementary school | Local News | kvoa.com

MARANA, Ariz. (KVOA) - A 13-year-old has been charged after a parent discovered a firearm in their child's backpack, sparking a swift investigation by the Marana Police Department.

The incident began on March 31, 2025, when officers were called by a concerned parent. The teenager confessed to stealing the gun from a third party and taking it to Gladden Farms Elementary on March 28, showing it to other students on and off campus.

The juvenile now faces multiple charges, including Minor in Possession of a Firearm, Disorderly Conduct with a Firearm, Misconduct Involving Weapons, and Theft of a Firearm. They have been booked into the Pima County Juvenile Detention Center.

"The safety of our community is our top priority," said the Marana Police Department. The department emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for weapons on school grounds and its commitment to working with local schools to ensure student safety.

Parents are encouraged to discuss the seriousness of such actions with their children. The Marana Police Department urges anyone aware of potential threats to school safety to report them immediately.