Kansas student brought gun, knife to school in response to hoax threat, officials say

A student at Stewart Elementary brought a gun and knife to school in response to a fake Facebook post the student believed to be true, according to a statement from Salina USD 305.

“The student brought the gun and knife not with the intention of harming anyone,” the statement said.

The school district learned of a threatening message that was spreading through social media on Wednesday. School officials immediately contacted the Salina Police Department, who determined the hoax was similar to one being circulated across the nation. It was not specific to Salina.

A notification was sent to parents at 9:24 that evening, said Jennifer Bradford-Vernon, public information director.

The student reportedly brought the gun and knife to school Friday morning.

“The gun and knife were immediately secured and police contacted,” the district said. “The student has been removed from the school property. The investigation continues as Salina USD 305 is working closely with Salina PD. We hold safety and security of our students and staff as the highest priority.”

This story was originally published February 23, 2018 at 11:30 AM with the headline "Kansas student brought gun, knife to school in response to hoax threat, officials say."