Grade 6 student honored for 'heroic actions' after classmate threatens to shoot someone

AMARILLO, Texas (KVII) — A “brave” year 6 student was honored for his “heroic actions” when a classmate brought a gun to school and threatened to shoot someone.

On February 20, a student brought a gun onto the Travis Middle School 6th grade campus.

Police said a 6th grade boy showed the gun to a friend in one of the restrooms. The friend pointed the gun at a third boy who was also in the bathroom.

Police say the student who brought the gun told other students he was going to shoot someone on campus.

“We understand the immense pressure children face from their peers, and we want to recognize a courageous student who acted, despite personal risk, to protect his peers and Travis' teachers,” police said. “Many students were aware of it, but only one had the courage to report it to a teacher.”

APD awarded the student a citizenship citation.

“We publicly thank him for his courage and his family for supporting his actions in this very frightening situation,” police said.

The student who brought the gun and the one who pointed it at another student were arrested and incarcerated at the Hautes Plaines Youth Center.

The 12-year-old boys are charged with attempted aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, illegal carrying of a weapon in a foreign trade zone, terroristic threat, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon; and illegal carrying of a place prohibited by weapons.

There are several ways for students to report something anonymously.

Anonymous tips can be made to Student Crimestoppers by calling 806-372-8477 (TIPS), downloading the P3 Tips app, or visiting the Student Crimestoppers website.

Students can also use the School Safety First online form.