Tampa Teen Arrested for Bringing Loaded Gun to School

Security personnel respond to a safety incident at a Tampa school.

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News Summary

A 16-year-old student was arrested at Leto High School in Tampa after being found with a loaded handgun. The incident raised serious safety concerns in the community, highlighting the dangers of firearms in educational settings. The investigation into how the student acquired the weapon is ongoing, as community leaders urge vigilance and collaboration to ensure school safety.

Tampa Teen Arrested for Bringing Loaded Gun to School

In an alarming incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a 16-year-old student was arrested at Leto High School in Tampa on February 17, 2025. The young juvenile, identified as Alonzo Bridges, found himself at the center of a major safety scare when he was caught with a loaded firearm on school grounds.

How the Incident Unfolded

It was a typical school morning when a vigilant school administrator spotted something unusual. There was a suspicious bulge between Bridges’ arm and ribcage. Acting quickly and decisively, the administrator activated the Centegix alert, triggering a response from the school’s security team. This alert is designed to ensure the safety of students and staff, promptly alerting authorities to potential threats.

Once the alert was raised, a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) School Resource Deputy quickly made contact with Bridges to investigate the situation. The deputy conducted an administrative search, and to everyone’s shock, they discovered that the teenager was in possession of a loaded handgun.

The Firearm’s Specs

The loaded handgun found in Bridges’ possession was no ordinary firearm. It contained 15 rounds in the magazine as well as one round in the chamber, meaning it was ready to fire with just a pull of the trigger. The potential consequences of such a possession in a school setting are catastrophic, raising concerns about the safety of students and staff alike.

A Mystery Unfolds

Subsequent questioning of Bridges revealed that he was not cooperating with authorities; he refused to provide any information on how he had obtained the firearm. This has left many in the community worried about where such weapons are coming from, especially among minors. The ongoing investigation aims to unravel this mystery and address the larger issue of gun safety and accessibility.

Community Concerns

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister voiced grave concerns about this incident, stressing the danger and unacceptability of bringing firearms into educational settings. He pointed out that such actions could have easily led to a tragic scenario, affecting not only the students and staff at Leto High School but also the wider community.

What Happens Next?

The investigation is ongoing, with officials leaving no stone unturned. The Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that they are committed to uncovering the facts behind this shocking situation. As community members seek answers and reassurance, updates will be provided by the Public Affairs Office to keep everyone informed about any developments.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, communication, and community involvement in maintaining safety in schools. Parents, educators, and students must work together to create a secure environment where learning can thrive, free from fear and danger.

As events continue to unfold, the Tampa community is left to grapple with this unsettling reality and consider what measures can prevent similar incidents in the future. It’s a call to action for everyone to be vigilant and proactive in keeping schools safe.