Tip leads to discovery of loaded gun on campus

Shortly before 1:00 pm on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, officers with the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) responded to Elsie Allen High School (EAHS), 599 Bellevue Avenue, to investigate a tip about a student possibly in possession of a handgun. An anonymous student advised school administrators that they believed a 16-year-old male student may have brought a firearm to school. The lunch period was ending as officers arrived on campus, and students were returning to class. A school employee advised officers the suspect was seen walking west toward the edge of campus. 

As EAHS staff and officers made their way to the student’s location, the student and a friend were observed sitting down along a curb with their backs to the initial responding Sergeant. The SRPD sergeant called the student’s name as he approached to detain him. The student stood up and faced the sergeant, who saw a black satchel slung across the juvenile’s chest. The student immediately ran away through the middle of campus, prompting the sergeant to pursue him as additional SRPD officers arrived to assist.  As the student neared the edge of campus toward the east entrance of the school, officers surrounded and ultimately detained the student. 

The student peacefully surrendered and was detained without incident. A search of the satchel uncovered a loaded Glock 9mm handgun. A folding knife was located in the student’s pants pocket. 

The 16-year-old male was arrested and booked into Juvenile Hall for the following charges: 

626.9(b) PC – Possession of a firearm on school grounds 

25850(c)(6) PC – Possession of a loaded firearm 

30310 PC – Possession of ammunition on school grounds 

626.10(a)(1) - Possession of a knife on school grounds 

148(a)(1) - Obstructing peace officer in course of duties 

The investigation into why the student brought a firearm to school is ongoing. However, at this time, we do not believe there was any immediate threat to the safety of the school. School administrators implemented a “Secure the Campus” this investigation unfolded, lifting the “Secure the Campus” after the student was in custody and the weapon was recovered. 

At the Santa Rosa Police Department, we want to remind everyone that bringing weapons of any kind to school is dangerous and unacceptable. Weapons pose serious threats to the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and staff, and can lead to severe consequences. We encourage all students to embrace the "If you see something, say something" mindset—if you notice anything suspicious or concerning, tell a trusted adult, call the police, or utilize the STOPitapp. The STOPit app is a mobile application used by all Santa Rosa City Schools middle and high schools. It is designed to help students, parents, and school communities anonymously report incidents of bullying, harassment, or any unsafe behavior in schools such as weapons on campus.  

We want to thank the school staff and administration for their vigilant efforts in ensuring a safe learning environment for everyone. School safety is a top priority, and it is a shared responsibility between the school, law enforcement, and the community. Together, we can help protect our schools and ensure that every student feels safe and supported. 

Santa Rosa Police Department case number 25-2661.