On Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at approximately 10:42 a.m., the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) responded to Montgomery High School following a report from a school administrator regarding a potential firearm on campus. The report originated from a STOPit notification, which identified three 16-year-old male students suspected of possessing a firearm. School administrators promptly contacted the police in response to the report due to immediate safety concerns.

Upon arrival, SRPD officers collaborated with school staff to quickly locate and detain the identified students. During the investigation, it was discovered that a 16-year-old male student had a handgun with a loaded magazine stored in their school locker. Officers and administrators conducted a thorough inquiry into the incident and the involvement of each of the identified students over the course of several hours. Officers concluded that the firearm was believed to be in the sole possession of the student who had concealed it in his locker.
The 16-year-old student was taken into custody and transported to Juvenile Hall, where they were booked on the following charges:

• PC 626.9(b): Possession of a loaded handgun on campus
• PC 29610: Minor in possession of a handgun

Due to the ages of the students involved in this incident, they will not be publicly identified.
The Santa Rosa Police Department commends the quick and decisive actions of the Montgomery High School staff in safeguarding the safety of students and personnel. Both SRPD and Santa Rosa City Schools continue to stress that weapons of any kind are strictly forbidden on school grounds. Students who bring weapons to campus will face disciplinary action by school administration and are subject to arrest.

Following this incident, parents are encouraged to have open conversations with their children about the serious consequences of possessing any type of weapon, including replicas, both at school and within the community. Staff and students are also reminded to report any safety concerns immediately to law enforcement, school officials, trusted adults, or through the STOPit app notification system. 

Media Contact: Santa Rosa Police Department.  Sgt Matt Crosbie (707) 975-1093 or at mcrosbie@srcity.org