Student Brought Knives To Freedom High School: Police

WOODBRIDGE, VA — A student brought two knives to Freedom High School in Woodbridge on Tuesday, according to the Prince William County Police Department. One of the knives fell out of the student's bag during a fight, authorities said.

No injuries were reported.

The police department identified the student as a 14-year-old boy. Police officials have not publicly identified him by name due to a Virginia law that protects the identities of minors.

The boy is charged with possession of a weapon on school grounds. Authorities said the boy is being held at the Prince William County Juvenile Detention Center and his court date is pending.

Around 12:45 p.m. on Tuesday, school security staff learned of a fight between three students at Freedom High School. During the altercation, a knife fell out of one student's bag, authorities said. School employees separated the students and grabbed the knife.

Faculty members notified the school resource officer who took the armed student into custody. The officer learned that the student had a second knife with him, the police department said.

Authorities noted that neither knife was used to threaten students.

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.