Woman issued criminal citation after gun incident at Pownal Elementary School

A woman from Pownal, Vermont, has received a criminal citation related to a March 19 incident involving a student bringing an unloaded gun to Pownal Elementary School. Crystal Mahar has been cited for negligent firearm storage by the Bennington County Sheriff's Department.

Sheriff James Gulley Jr. emphasized the importance of keeping schools safe and holding individuals accountable for their responsibilities. He noted that this incident underscores the critical need for responsible firearm storage to protect communities and educational environments.

The sheriff confirmed that the State's Attorney's Office currently has all official documentation regarding the case. He also mentioned that details about the juvenile involved in the incident cannot be released due to privacy laws.

Gulley urged gun owners to prioritize safety by taking precautions to ensure that firearms are securely stored and inaccessible to children. The case serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to maintain safety in schools.

Overall, this incident has highlighted the ongoing discussions around firearm safety and the responsibilities that come with gun ownership. The sheriff's office reinforces the need for accountability to prevent similar occurrences in the future.