Shock in La Paz: 7-Year-Old Brings Real Gun to Elementary School

 

Authorities promise stricter safety measures across local schools

LA PAZ, Baja California Sur — A quiet morning at a neighborhood elementary school turned into a scene of disbelief and concern after teachers discovered that a 7-year-old student had a real handgun inside his backpack. The incident took place Tuesday, October 28, at Francisco González Bocanegra Elementary School, located on Colima and Las Garzas streets, and has sparked widespread alarm among parents and educators.

According to witnesses, a school staff member noticed something suspicious while students were arriving and immediately notified the principal, who called emergency services. Police officers responding to the 911 call inspected the child’s backpack and confirmed the weapon was not a toy but a .22-caliber pistol.

Police confirm weapon was real but unloaded

Municipal police officers quickly secured the weapon, later joined by investigators from the State Attorney General’s Office (PGJE). A forensic examination confirmed that the pistol was real, not loaded, and had no ammunition in the chamber or magazine. Authorities safely removed it from the school and began an official criminal investigation.

Preliminary findings suggest the gun had been kept locked away at the child’s home, raising questions about how the boy managed to access it. The child’s parents told investigators they were unaware that he could reach the secured firearm.

Community demands stronger prevention and education

The event has reignited concern among local families about gun safety and parental responsibility. One parent told local reporters that this is not the first safety scare at the school — a similar incident reportedly occurred months earlier when a child was found with a live bullet.

In response, authorities have pledged to tighten safety protocols and expand prevention programs across public schools in La Paz. The PGJE emphasized that it will continue investigating until the full circumstances are clarified, reiterating that the safety of children remains a top priority.

Beyond the immediate shock, the case has become a wake-up call for the community — a reminder of the importance of responsible gun ownership, family supervision, and stronger school security to prevent future tragedies.