The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has arrested four Plant City High School students following an incident involving firearms on campus.
On April 17, 2026, at 1:40 p.m., multiple students engaged in a physical altercation. School administrators de-escalated the situation and separated the students involved.
During the investigation, it was determined that Subject one, 14, and Subject two, 14, gave their backpacks to Subject three, 15, and Subject four, 14, who attempted to hide them on campus.
HCSO’s school resource deputy and school administrators were able to find both backpacks, and a search inside revealed two firearms. One of those firearms was loaded.
Subject one, 14, is charged with:
- Possession of a Firearm on School Property
- Minor in Possession of a Firearm
- Disrupting School Campus or Function
Subject two, 14, is charged with:
- Possession of a Firearm on School Property
- Minor in Possession of a Firearm
- Disrupting School Campus or Function
Subject three, 15, is charged with:
- Tampering With Physical Evidence
- Possession of a Firearm on School Property
- Minor in Possession of a Firearm
Subject four, 14, is charged with:
- Tampering With Physical Evidence
- Possession of a Firearm on School Property
- Minor in Possession of a Firearm
“Bringing firearms onto a school campus is a serious and dangerous decision that puts students and staff at risk. Thankfully, this situation was contained before anyone was hurt,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “We have zero tolerance for weapons on our campuses, and we will take quick action to hold those responsible accountable.”
This remains an active investigation.
