LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A backpack set off Ballard High’s weapons detection system Thursday, leading staff to discover a gun, officials said.
The student carrying it triggered the system after arriving late, Principal Jason Neuss said in a letter sent home to parents. Staff found the weapon during a routine inspection.
According to Neuss, the student cooperated with staff and followed all safety protocols, and at no point was the gun used in a threatening way.
Disciplinary action will follow under the school’s Student Support and Behavior Intervention Handbook.
You can view the full letter below:
March 5, 2026
"Ballard High School Families, I want to inform you about an incident that occurred at our school earlier today.
Early this afternoon, a student arrived late to school, and their backpack triggered our weapons detection system. Upon further inspection, a gun was found inside the backpack.
The student immediately cooperated with staff and followed all safety protocols without incident.
The student never used the gun in a threatening manner. The situation was handled quickly and safely, thanks to the procedures we have in place.
The student will be disciplined in accordance with the Student Support and Behavior Intervention Handbook (SSBIH). Please review this handbook with your student.
We are grateful for the effectiveness of our safety systems and the diligence of our staff. Please know that we take these matters very seriously and are committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office."
Sincerely
Jason Neuss, Ed.D.
Principal
Ballard High School
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