MT. ZION, Ill. (WAND) — School buildings were put under lockdown at Mt. Zion on Monday morning after a box believed to be for a handgun was found on premises.
According to a statement from the district, a cardboard box with a gun safety lock, paperwork, and serial number for a small caliber handgun was found during Early Bird classes. The box also displayed a gun manufacturer's logo. No gun or ammunition was present in the box.
The high school and junior high buildings were put into a lockdown and searched by staff, police, deputies, and multiple state police K-9 units trained to identify weapons. No gun or ammunition was found at the school.
After the search, students were transported home to allow further investigation.
As of Monday afternoon, an owner of the gun box was identified. The district does not believe that students or staff are in danger but an increased law enforcement presence will be in effect at the high school and junior high. Additional administration will also be present on Tuesday for student arrival.
The schools plan on running regular school day schedules on Tuesday.
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