Mardela Springs, MD - On November 2, 2023, an investigation was launched into a 13-year-old being in possession of a handgun at Mardela Middle and High School.   

The student was located and removed from the school by a Wicomico County Sheriff's Office School Resource Officer. A 9mm handgun was found in the student's backpack.  The handgun was not loaded, and no ammunition was located.  

A request for a juvenile referral was forwarded to the Department of Juvenile Services.  

The Department of Juvenile Services ordered the 13-year-old student to be held pending his juvenile court appearance.

The name of the juvenile will not be released due to his age. 

The School Resource Deputy and Administrative Staff resolved the initial report quickly, with little disruption to school activities.  There is no known threat to the school at this time.    

This investigation is ongoing.  If you have any information about this case, please contact Deputy Hagel.      

All suspects are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.