Jacksonville, Florida, February 7, 2026
In Jacksonville, Florida, law enforcement agencies are investigating three school safety incidents that occurred within 24 hours. The incidents include a lockdown at First Coast High School due to a potential firearm on campus, a St. Johns County student found with a loaded firearm on a school bus, and a shooting investigation in Clay County. These events have raised concerns about student safety and the effectiveness of current measures to prevent weapons in schools. Investigators are actively working to uncover the facts surrounding these incidents.
Jacksonville, Florida – Law Enforcement Investigates Three School Safety Incidents in 24 Hours
In a span of 24 hours, law enforcement agencies in Jacksonville, Florida, responded to three separate school safety incidents, prompting heightened concerns about student security in the region.
First Incident: First Coast High School Lockdown
On February 26, 2024, First Coast High School was placed under lockdown following reports of a possible firearm on campus. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and Duval County School Police swiftly responded to the situation. After a thorough search, the lockdown was lifted, and no firearm was found on the premises. The incident is currently under investigation to determine the source of the threat and to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Second Incident: St. Johns County Student Found with Firearm
Two days prior, on February 24, 2024, a 16-year-old student at a St. Johns County school was discovered with a loaded firearm on a school bus. Deputies observed the student discarding the weapon before surrendering to law enforcement. Through investigative means, deputies learned the firearm was stolen from a residence in the area. The student faces charges related to firearm possession on school property and theft. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges schools face in preventing weapons from entering educational environments.
Third Incident: Clay County Sheriff’s Office Shooting Investigation
On February 22, 2024, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office responded to a shooting incident near Ponce Boulevard. The shooting appears to be an isolated event, and law enforcement is working with state and federal partners to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. No further details have been released at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.
Background Context: School Safety Measures in Florida
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges Florida schools face in maintaining safety. In response to such concerns, the state has implemented measures like Alyssa’s Law, which mandates the installation of silent panic alarms in classrooms to alert law enforcement during emergencies. Additionally, the Florida Department of Education requires schools to report safety incidents, including weapons possession, to monitor and address potential threats. However, discrepancies in reporting have been noted, with some incidents not being reported to law enforcement, raising questions about the accuracy of safety data and the effectiveness of current measures.
Conclusion
The recent incidents in Jacksonville serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in ensuring the safety of students and staff. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover the details of each event and to reinforce strategies to prevent future occurrences.
FAQ
What happened at First Coast High School on February 26, 2024?
On February 26, 2024, First Coast High School was placed under lockdown after reports of a possible firearm on campus. The lockdown was lifted after a thorough search, and no firearm was found.
What charges is the 16-year-old student in St. Johns County facing?
The 16-year-old student is facing charges related to firearm possession on school property and theft, as the firearm was stolen from a residence in the area.
What is Alyssa’s Law?
Alyssa’s Law is a Florida state law that mandates the installation of silent panic alarms in classrooms to alert law enforcement during emergencies, aiming to enhance school safety.
Are there discrepancies in reporting school safety incidents in Florida?
Yes, discrepancies have been noted, with some incidents not being reported to law enforcement, raising questions about the accuracy of safety data and the effectiveness of current measures.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incidents Reported | Three separate school safety incidents in Jacksonville, Florida, within 24 hours. |
| First Incident | Lockdown at First Coast High School due to a possible firearm on campus; no firearm found. |
| Second Incident | 16-year-old student found with a loaded firearm on a St. Johns County school bus; firearm was stolen. |
| Third Incident | Shooting investigation by Clay County Sheriff’s Office near Ponce Boulevard; details under investigation. |
| Background | Implementation of Alyssa’s Law and reporting requirements by the Florida Department of Education to enhance school safety. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
