Police Arrest Gaithersburg High School Student with a Handgun

Officers from the Gaithersburg Police Department have arrested a Gaithersburg High School student for possession of a loaded handgun on Gaithersburg High School property.

On March 10, 2026, at approximately 9:15 a.m., Gaithersburg Police Department (GPD) Community Engagement Officers and GPD Patrol Officers responded to a reported weapons offense at Gaithersburg High School (GHS).

School staff advised officers that they received an anonymous tip from a community member reporting that a specific student was in possession of a handgun. GHS staff, MCPS security personnel, and GPD officers quickly located the student. A subsequent search of the student's backpack revealed a loaded .40 caliber Glock handgun equipped with an extended magazine and bearing an obliterated serial number. There is no ongoing threat to students, staff, or the community.

The 17-year-old student was arrested, transported to the Central Processing Unit, and charged as an adult with the following offenses:

• Dangerous Weapon on School Property
• Handgun on Person
• Loaded Handgun on Person
• Minor in Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number

The GPD thanks the community member whose tip assisted in the quick and safe resolution of this incident. We remain committed to maintaining a safe school environment and working closely with MCPS and GHS administration on all safety-related matters.

A photo of the suspect will not be released, as he remains a juvenile, even though he is being charged as an adult.

For more information contact the Gaithersburg Police Department at 301-258-6400 or the Gaithersburg Police Department - Public Information Officer at [email protected].