Weapons Detection System Stops Loaded Handgun at Joppatowne High School
A combination of detection technology, staff screening protocols and law enforcement led to the safe recovery of a firearm.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- September 22, 2026
A 15-year-old freshman was arrested after a district weapons detection system alerted staff to a loaded handgun at Joppatowne High School.
The incident occurred when the school's $1.1 million weapons detection system scanned the student as he entered the building and alerted staff to a potential weapon. A School Safety Liaison immediately searched the teenager's belongings and found a concealed, loaded handgun inside.
An on-site school resource officer detained the student. The location was the site of a fatal shooting involving two classmates just over two years ago. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office credited the safe outcome to a combination of partnerships, training and technology.
Harford County Public Schools stated that the weapons detection system functioned as intended, noting that students and staff followed established safety protocols alongside safety personnel, school staff and law enforcement partners.