STATEMENT REGARDING STUDENT POSSESSION OF A GUN ON A SCHOOL BUS
May 6, 2026
“UPSD was made aware, this morning, of an incident involving a student in possession of a firearm on the Red Chicken School Bus yesterday afternoon. After investigation, it was determined that a student was in possession of a firearm on the school bus. While the gun was not loaded and there is no reason to believe that there was any ill intent, the possession of a firearm, or any weapon, is strictly prohibited by UPSD Board Policies JCDAE and JCDAE(2) and Mississippi law.
FERPA protections do not allow the release of the name of the student involved. However, the student involved is no longer enrolled in the Union Public School District. UPSD parents were notified of the incident and outcome at 8:43 AM. Additionally, a report to the City of Union Police Department was made this morning at the conclusion of the school investigation. We will cooperate fully with the Union Police Department on any next steps. The safety and security of our students and staff remain our highest priority. We are thankful for the reporting from students and parents, the actions of school personnel, and for the cooperation of all involved in this unfortunate event.
We also want to take this opportunity to strongly encourage all parents and guardians to ensure that firearms are securely stored and inaccessible to children. Safe firearm storage can help prevent accidents, poor decisions, and dangerous situations. We ask that families have open and serious conversations with their children about the dangers of firearms and reinforce that weapons, of any kind, should NEVER be brought to school, on a school bus, or to any school-related activity.
At Union, we remain committed to maintaining safe learning environments for every student and staff member.”
