MESA COUNTY, Colo – At approximately 1:40 this afternoon, Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a juvenile male seen on Central High School’s campus with what was believed to be gun. Students who saw the juvenile, who is not a student at CHS, reported the suspicious incident to School Resource Officers. Central High School and Grand Mesa Middle School were immediately put into shelter in while deputies began searching for the male suspect who had left the school’s campus.
As part of the shelter-in-place process, extra law enforcement officers were also stationed at the schools as a precaution.
Through the course of investigation, deputies learned the suspect had a possible connection to Grand Junction High School. As a result, Grand Junction High School was put on shelter in place out an abundance of caution.
Grand Junction High School and Grand Mesa Middle School released school on time.
Initially, a normal release time was planned at Central High School. However, due to last minute information the suspect may still be near the school, extra security measures were put into place delaying the release of students. Our number one priority is the ensuring the safety of students. We appreciate parents’ patience during the reunification process.
The juvenile suspect was taken into custody at 4:30 p.m. on the 3200 block of Lombardy Lane. Charges stemming from this incident are pending. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office will be working with 21st Judicial District Attorney's Office to determine the appropriate charges as the investigation continues.
At this time, all students are safe. There are no reports of any injuries.
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office wants to commend the students who came forward. Remember if you see something suspicious or not right, tell a teacher, school resource officer or call 911.
