Aurora PD: Mother Cited After Child Brings Loaded Gun to School

AURORA, Colo. -- A mother has received a summons from the Aurora Police Department after her child was found with a loaded gun at Arrowhead Elementary School on Friday morning. Police responded to a call around 8:30 a.m. about a student in possession of a firearm, prompting a quick investigation.

Initial reports indicate that the child was displaying the gun to classmates when another student alerted an adult. Officers swiftly located the weapon in the child’s backpack. In response, the school initiated a lockdown protocol as a precaution, which was lifted shortly after, allowing classes to resume by 9 a.m.

Though the firearm was loaded, police confirmed that there was no live round in the chamber, and there was no indication that the student intended to harm anyone. Parents expressed their concern, including Gina Cacciatore, who rushed to the school upon hearing the news. She emphasized the need for enhanced security measures in schools, advocating for the installation of metal detectors.

Several parents visited the school to check on their children, with some opting to take them home early. Grandparent Michelle Henderson expressed relief after reuniting with her grandchildren, noting that such incidents, while surprising, have become distressingly common in schools.

Later that day, Aurora officials announced that the mother, identified as Zoe Cherelle Cantrelle, had been issued a summons for child abuse and failing to secure a firearm, both misdemeanors under Colorado law, which requires firearms to be stored securely to prevent access by minors. At this time, the student is not facing any charges.