Police: School staff member placed on leave after gun found in car on campus

A staff member at a Lexington elementary school staff was placed on administrative leave following the discovery of a firearm in their car on school property, according to the Lexington Police Department. 

On March 27 at around 9:05 a.m., police said they responded to a call at Estabrook Elementary School concerning a handgun that was spotted in the passenger seat of a vehicle at the school.

The handgun was unattended and in a holster sitting in the car, according to a statement released by police. 

Police determined the firearm belonged to a school staff member who did have a valid Massachusetts license to carry firearms, according to the statement. Police did not identify the staff member.

The unnamed staff member admitted to owning this particular handgun and leaving it on the seat, according to police. As a result, this staff member was placed on administrative leave, according to the statement. 

Police said they seized both the firearm and license.

“The Lexington Police and School Department are dedicated to providing a safe environment for students and staff on all district campuses,” part of the statement read. “At no time were any students or staff in immediate danger, and no direct threats were made during the incident.” 

According to officials, this staff member will be charged for storing their firearm improperly as well as bringing a firearm onto school property. 

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