Two students at Thomas Heyward Academy in Ridgeland, South Carolina, were charged after one brought a loaded Glock 380 to school on February 6, 2026, around 2 p.m. The student handed it to another, who pointed it at a third student, prompting a swift response from school staff and police. No injuries occurred, and no threats were made.
Incident Details
The weapon came from the first student’s home, where they had kept it for days. Headmaster Scott K. Gibson quickly confiscated the backpack containing the gun and notified parents via email, stating the matter was resolved immediately and turned over to law enforcement. Ridgeland Police Lieutenant Daniel Litchfield confirmed the sequence of events.
Charges Faced
Both juveniles face charges for possession of a weapon by a person under 18 and possession on school grounds. The student who pointed the gun also faces a pointing and presenting firearm charge. They were petitioned to the Department of Juvenile Justice in Columbia and transported there post-incident.
School Context
Thomas Heyward Academy is a private K-12 school serving Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. The Jasper County Sun Times sought comment from the school late Friday, but none was available then. This event aligns with your interest in South Carolina public safety incidents around the Lowcountry region.
