Vigo County, In. – Wednesday December 8th Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse released the following statement updating the Case of the Sugar Creek Consolidated student found with a gun.
On December 6th at approximately 12:45 p.m., an 11 year old male student at Sugar Creek Consolidated Elementary School exited the building. He was excused to use the restroom and did not return.
Soon after, school protection officers and school personnel began searching for the missing student. The search began on the interior of the building; however, officers were unable to locate the student. The search then moved to the exterior of the building. During this time additional law enforcement resources responded to the area in an attempt to locate the missing student. Multiple gunshots were then heard by the officers, which they believed to be in a wooded area and open field located west of the school.
Officers were able to locate the student in that area and observed him to be in possession of a rifle. Officers attempted to speak to the student in an attempt to get him to put the weapon down. Eventually, officers were able to get close enough to detain the student. At no time did officers see the student fire the weapon nor is there evidence to indicate the student fired the weapon at or towards the school. The student did; however, point the firearm at the officers. The student was arrested and transported to the Vigo County Juvenile Center.
Initial investigation indicates the student exited the school, walked to a nearby residence, entered into the residence, and located the firearm.
Responding agencies included the Vigo County Sheriff’s Office, the West Terre Haute Police Department, Indiana State Police, and the Terre Haute City Police Department. EMA also responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.
At this time the student is being charged with pointing a firearm and theft.
The Vigo County School Corporation will be handling any issues in regards to the school and district policies, while the Vigo County Sheriff’s Office will be handling the criminal investigation aspect of this case.
While this is a very unfortunate incident and we understand the fear and stress this caused students and their families, along with school personnel, we commend the quick and tactical response of all officers involved. We are confident the community realizes we have an area full of law enforcement officers, who will always respond without hesitation, as well as utilize their training and experience to act swiftly.
No injuries were sustained during this incident. This investigation is ongoing.
John Plasse
Vigo County Sheriff