Student at Honey Creek finds officer's gun in bathroom

Mar. 20—The Vigo County School Corp. says "appropriate measures have been taken" after a student found the holstered handgun of school protection officer in a Honey Creek Middle School bathroom today.

The student who saw the gun immediately reported it, the district says.

"At no point did a student handle or have possession of the gun and it never left the restroom," according to an email to parents from Principal Trina McDonald.

McDonald emphasized that "our students are safe. Our teachers and staff are safe. Our school is safe."

The situation "is concerning and is being dealt with accordingly," McDonald said in her communication.

Katie Shane, district chief communications officer, said the district will not be commenting further.

"Although it's a personnel issue and I cannot directly comment, I will say the appropriate measures have been taken," Shane said in an email.

According to McDonald's email, the student who saw the gun "did everything correctly."

She thanked teachers, staff and the student's family "for teaching important and valuable safety protocol." She also thanked Honey Creek teachers and staff for staying calm and not causing undue stress to students.

McDonald urged families to contact her with any questions or concerns.

Sue Loughlin can be reached at 812-231-4235 or at sue.loughlin@tribstar.com. Follow Sue on X at @TribStarSue.