04/07/2026
PRESS RELEASE 4/7/2026 DOWNINGTOWN SCHOOL BUS INCIDENT
On 4/7/2026, at 7:26am, area Police Departments were alerted to a student that possessed a firearm on a school bus near the Downingtown Middle School. Several police departments responded and located the student in question on the bus. The student was removed and the weapon was confiscated. The firearm was found to be plastic, but had realistic characteristics at a quick glance. The investigation determined the student brought this from home, which the student resides in our police jurisdiction. A WBPD officer responded to take over the investigation. The item was confiscated and the student was turned over to respective school officials. The matter continues to be investigated by Police to determine outcome.
All of our students deserve to feel safe, especially traversing to school, while in school and coming home from school. Its important that we all work together to help those students having mental health crisis or just making bad decisions, to correct, educate, help or discipline when warranted. It takes a village...............
Stay Safe All,
Chief Kimes
WBPD
Here is the statement from Downingtown School District
Dear DMS, West, and STEM Parents and Guardians,
We are writing to share a brief update regarding a situation that occurred today on bus 125.
On the way to school today, the driver of bus 125 was informed of a potential weapon on the bus. The driver pulled over, stating the bus had a mechanical issue, and alerted administration. Multiple police departments and administration responded immediately and secured the item.
It was determined that the item was a plastic non-functioning replica firearm, and there was no intent to cause harm. The matter is being handled in accordance with district procedures and disciplinary policy. The West Brandywine Police are conducting the follow-up investigation.
As a reminder, the DASD student Code of Conduct prohibits students from possessing and bringing weapons and replicas of weapons into any school district buildings, onto school property, to any school-sponsored activity, and onto any public vehicle providing transportation to school or a school-sponsored activity or while the student is coming to or from school.
This notification is being shared in accordance with Pennsylvania Act 44 of 2025, which requires schools to inform families within 24 hours when there is a staff response to the possession of a weapon on school property.
We appreciate your continued partnership in reinforcing safety expectations with students, including reporting concerns to a trusted adult.
If your child has questions about this message, please reassure them that the situation was addressed promptly and that our schools and buses remain safe. Please reach out to the main office with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Shealy
Director of Communications