2 juveniles arrested, guns seized in Philip Simmons High School lockdown

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after firearms were found at a high school in the Wando area.

Deputies were called out to Philip Simmons High School around 2:46 p.m.

Once deputies made it to the campus, they arrested one student and another student fled the campus, according to the sheriff’s office.

The student who fled was later arrested, and investigators say they recovered two firearms from the juveniles. The Berkeley County School District says another gun was confiscated bringing the total to three.

Deputies say that the school is now secured, and no students are in danger.

Philip Simmons Elementary, Middle and High Schools were all put on lockdown out of caution. Friday is homecoming for Philip Simmons High School, according to the school’s athletic director; the football team is still set to play Aynor.

The Charleston Police Department assisted in the investigation.

The school district released a statement to staff, parents and guardians following the incident:

As Philip Simmons Elementary, Middle, and High were all impacted by the lockdown today, we wanted to ensure that all parents and guardians are informed concerning the events of today. At approximately 2:40 p.m., Philip Simmons High School administrators received reports that there may be a weapon on campus. With the support of law enforcement, administrators identified two students and conducted administrative searches. During the searches, one student fled from officials, which initiated the lockdown. As previously stated, the lockdown was in place, as a precaution, to ensure student and staff safety while law enforcement conducted a search investigation in the area surrounding the campus. Law enforcement did locate the student who fled. As a result of the administrative searches, three weapons were confiscated. School administration is following all district policy and procedures to address the matter. We appreciate everyone’s patience and support while we worked with law enforcement to ensure student and staff safety. With security as our highest priority, we take all reports that pertain to the safety of our schools seriously. We appreciate the cooperation and support of everyone who is helping to keep our schools safe. We ask that you continue to encourage your children to report any concerns to their teachers and administrators. We recognize that the events of today may cause concern for those planning to attend tonight’s game so there will be additional deputies on site at the Philip Simmons High School Homecoming Game tonight.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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