12-Year-Old Who Brought Knife On School Bus In Bristow Faces Criminal Charge: Police

BRISTOW, VA — A Marsteller Middle School student brought a knife onto a school bus in Bristow last week, according to the Prince William County Police Department.

Authorities identified the student as a 12-year-old boy. His name has not been released due to a Virginia law that protects the identities of minors.

The boy is charged with one count of possession of a weapon on school grounds. His court date is pending.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, March 22 and was reported to the school resource officer at Marsteller Middle School on Thursday. Witnesses said that the boy showed the knife to other students while riding the bus.

No injuries were reported and the school resource officer said the knife was never used as part of a threat.

Lisa Warner is the principal at Marsteller Middle School. In a letter to parents, Warner said the knife was immediately confiscated.

"Please take the opportunity to remind your child that the actual or suspected presence of any weapon should always be reported to an adult immediately. It is never acceptable for a student to have a weapon or potential weapon on school grounds or school bus," Warner said. "As always, it is our commitment to keep our students, staff, and families as safe as possible at all times at Marsteller Middle School, and we greatly appreciate your support in these efforts."

The Prince William County school system is currently considering security screening technology at campuses. The proposed systems would scan students for weapons. Superintendent LaTanya McDade noted that the technology is similar to the systems used at concert venues and sports stadiums.

Read more: New Security Screenings Considered For PWC Schools

The security screening systems could be implemented before the start of the 2023-2024 school year. More information about the technology is available online.