ST. PETERSBURG, FL – In a shocking incident that has left a community on edge, a 13-year-old student reportedly shot herself on a school bus Wednesday morning while en route to Tyrone Middle School. The incident unfolded at the busy intersection of 49th Street North and 18th Avenue North, where the bus was carrying 20 students.
Emergency medical personnel swiftly transported the injured girl to a nearby hospital. Authorities have confirmed that she is in stable condition. The situation has rattled parents, students, and school officials alike, raising urgent questions about how the young student obtained a firearm.
Police are actively investigating the source of the gun and are working closely with school officials to ensure that all students remain safe. The St. Petersburg Police Department has not released the identity of the girl due to her age, but they are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The incident has reignited the debate over gun safety and access among minors, with many community members calling for stricter measures to prevent such tragedies. School officials have assured parents that they are reviewing safety protocols and are providing counseling services to students affected by the event.
Parents of students at Tyrone Middle School have been notified of the incident, and the school has issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to student safety. The district is cooperating fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
This troubling event is a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding youth access to firearms. Community leaders are expected to hold a meeting later this week to discuss potential measures to enhance school safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on the well-being of the students and ensuring that the necessary support systems are in place. The school district has encouraged parents to speak with their children about the incident and to remain vigilant.
The community’s response to this incident will likely influence future policies aimed at safeguarding students and preventing access to firearms by minors.