Woman Arrested for Leaving Gun Unattended at School

A view of the auditorium at Bruton High School, where safety incidents have raised concerns.

News Summary

A Williamsburg woman has been charged after leaving a purse with a firearm unattended at Bruton High School following a band concert. The incident raised significant safety concerns as school officials and parents reacted to the violation of firearm regulations on school property. The School Resource Officer identified the owner and conducted an investigation leading to her arrest for possession of a firearm on school grounds. This case highlights the critical need for awareness around gun safety and the legal restrictions pertaining to weapons in educational environments.

Williamsburg, Virginia – A Williamsburg woman has been arrested after leaving a purse containing a firearm unattended at Bruton High School. The incident, which has raised concerns about safety on school property, occurred overnight following a band concert that took place Thursday evening.

On Friday morning, a staff member discovered the unattended purse in the school’s auditorium. The School Resource Officer (SRO) was alerted to the situation, leading to an investigation that quickly identified the purse as belonging to Rebecca R. Sandoval, a 36-year-old resident of Williamsburg. Following this identification, the SRO determined that Sandoval had attended the concert the previous evening.

Upon further investigation, the SRO obtained a warrant for Sandoval’s arrest. She was taken into custody on Friday and charged with possession of a firearm on school property, a serious offense classified as a felony. The law explicitly prohibits any weapons on school campuses, and despite Sandoval holding a permit for concealed carry, she violated this regulation by bringing the firearm onto school grounds.

Principal Aaron McQuillan of Bruton High School emphasized that the presence of any weapons on school property is against the law, regardless of an individual’s concealed carry permit. This incident underscores the critical importance of adhering to legal regulations governing firearms and ensuring school environments remain safe for students and staff.

The timing of the incident is particularly alarming as it followed a public school event where families and community members gathered to enjoy music performed by local students. The discovery of the firearm raised immediate safety concerns among school officials, parents, and attendees of the concert.

The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. As part of their investigation, they are assessing how the firearm was left in the purse and any potential implications for community safety. Law enforcement aims to remind the public about the responsibilities that come with firearm ownership, particularly in areas where children and young adults are present.

Gun safety advocates have also pointed out the significance of securing firearms properly, especially in environments such as schools, where children are particularly vulnerable. Incidents like this highlight the need for ongoing education about firearm safety and the legal implications of carrying weapons in areas deemed secure zones.

This arrest serves as a crucial reminder of the laws surrounding firearms, particularly concerning their presence in educational institutions. The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office has reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety on school campuses and enhancing communication with the local community regarding firearm regulations and safe practices.

As the situation develops, further updates will be provided to ensure the community remains informed about safety measures and legal expectations regarding firearms on school property.