Crest Middle sends letter to parents, Sheriff's Office further explains Wednesday's incident
- Chuck Thompson
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
By Chuck Thompson | The Shelby Independent
Crest Middle School – A firearm was discovered in a vehicle at Crest Middle School on Wednesday.
According to school and law enforcement officials, a firearm was visible in a vehicle belonging to an employee of Crest Middle School.
After concerns were lifted that someone who did not belong on school grounds might be on the property, it was determined the firearm did in fact belong to an employee, according to a statement released by the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office.
“As a precaution, deputies worked closely with school administrators to ensure the continued safety of students and staff,” explained the statement. “The firearm was seized, and the employee was interviewed as part of the investigation. Following a review of the facts and circumstances with the District Attorney’s Office, prosecution in this matter was declined.”
A letter obtained by The Shelby Independent, sent to Crest Middle School parents by the school, addressed the same concerns and reassured parents there was no malicious intent in regards to the matter.
(Read the letter below local advertisements)
“Dear Crest Middle Parents,
As you know, our focus is to provide students with a quality education in a safe and orderly environment. We believe that it is important to keep the lines of communication open with you to make you aware when a situation arises at our school.
Today, Wednesday, January 7, 2025 (2026) we received a report that a weapon was seen in a car on our campus.
We worked closely with law enforcement to investigate this report, which was found to be true.
The weapon was never in our school building and was never removed from the car.
While we have no reason at this time to believe there was any malicious intent, we do take issues of this nature very seriously. Please know that this incident is continuing to be handled by law enforcement.
Thank you for your involvement in your student's education and your partnership with our school. If you have questions, please feel free to contact me at the school.”
While the name of the employee involved has not been released, and no charges were filed, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office reassures the public they are handling the incident seriously and with the safety of all students and employees in mind.
“The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office takes all matters involving school safety extremely seriously. Weapons on school property, whether intentional or unintentional, pose significant safety concerns and are thoroughly investigated.”
The CCSO statement concluded by adding “The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to working closely with Cleveland County Schools to maintain a safe learning environment and to ensure swift and appropriate responses to any situation that could threaten the safety of students, staff, or visitors.”
Follow The Shelby Independent on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. To contact Chuck about a story idea, send an email or visit the contact page.
Chuck Thompson is a reporter and columnist for The Shelby Independent.
The Shelby Independent, 2026.
This story involved a press release and a letter, all information obtained was done was by the right of fair and standard journalism practices.