Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s investigators believe a firearm found on the Aptos High School campus this week is likely tied to an assault that occurred during winter break at the school, or near the camopus.
According to Sheriff’s Sgt. Ryan Farotte, a juvenile suspect was arrested in December for the incident, during which several juvenile suspects assaulted another juvenile.
It is not clear whether the suspect is still in custody.
Also unclear is how long the firearm had been on the campus, but investigators believe it was placed there after the December assault.
According to Sheriff’s Lt. Chris Shearer, the altercation involved firearms, which were not discharged.
“It’s important to note that none of the juveniles were students at Aptos High School,” Shearer said in a video posted to Facebook.
A bag containing a firearm and ammunition was discovered on campus on Jan. 18. A mask was also found nearby. The find was reported immediately and law enforcement responded quickly, PVUSD said.
The district worked with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office to secure the campus and search surrounding areas. Over a three-day period, authorities conducted what the district described as extensive safety measures, including repeated campus searches supported by a bomb-detection K-9 unit and a bomb squad.
Forensic scientists are examining the firearm, Shearer said.
The district said law enforcement also increased patrols and staffing at schools countywide and continued coordinating with the Santa Cruz County Office of Education and regional law enforcement partners.
An arrest has been made, PVUSD said, and investigators determined the individual involved was not an Aptos High student. The investigation remains active.
PVUSD said elevated law enforcement presence and existing safety protocols will remain in place as a precaution, with continued coordination between the district, the Sheriff’s Office and partner agencies.
“The safety of students, staff, and the broader community is PVUSD’s highest priority,” the district said in its update, acknowledging concerns from families and community members.
