Houston ISD is increasing security measures at one of its high schools after two students allegedly brought firearms to campus.
On Monday, Lamar High School notified parents that a student attempting to bring a gun to school was detained following a brief pursuit off campus. HISD reported that police successfully located the weapon and took the student into custody.
School administrators also suspected a second student of carrying a weapon. This student was detained as well, and a firearm was confiscated. The district assured parents that everyone was safe.
“I’m definitely thankful to be here now and safe,” student Feben Degefa said. “The only thing to do now is thank God. Like, God is so good for keeping us safe the way that He has (Tuesday).”
“I’m shocked, and I hate that this is becoming normalized,” added student Ealeynah Epps. “It’s happening so much.”
Media’s investigation requested HISD data on how frequently guns are found on campuses. Last school year, HISD reported discovering 17 guns and 10 BB guns district-wide. This year, as of mid-September, one BB gun and eight guns have been found.
HISD confirmed that both students involved would face felony charges and “will receive disciplinary actions in accordance with the Texas Education Code.”
Court records indicate that charges of possession of a prohibited weapon were filed against 17-year-old Clifton Skillern. Documents state Skillern “concealed a handgun with an extended magazine while at Lamar High School on Oct. 28, 2024.” He is currently in custody with a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday, and bond set at $50,000.
In response, district officials have announced increased security at Lamar as a precautionary measure. Footage obtained by ABC13 shows long lines outside the school on Tuesday morning, with students passing through a security checkpoint with metal detectors.
“I have mixed feelings about it because it wasn’t efficient (Tuesday),” Epps said. “So many students were late, and I don’t know how they intend to search 3,000 students every day.”
“I felt safer knowing they were taking necessary precautions to keep us safe in class,” said Degefa.
In a statement, HISD emphasized, “HISD takes every threat to campus safety seriously and collaborates closely with local law enforcement agencies to investigate thoroughly and take actions to ensure the safety of all students and staff.”
