Special needs student charged with gun possession

MCKEESPORT, Pa. (AP) — A 16-year-old special needs student is facing weapons charges after a loaded handgun was taken from his locker at a western Pennsylvania Catholic high school.

Pittsburgh diocese officials say two girls at Serra Catholic High School saw a boy lift his jacket, exposing the gun tucked into his waistband. The girls reported the incident to a principal, who found the gun in a locker and alerted authorities.

The Rev. Kris Stubna, the diocese’s secretary of education, says the student made no threats and did not point the gun at anyone.

McKeesport police say the boy faces charges of gun possession by a minor and gun possession on school property. His name was not released.

Stubna says the student has been suspended pending an expulsion hearing.