WEST WARWICK, R.I. — West Warwick Public Schools dismissed students at Deering Middle School (DMS) and West Warwick High School (WWHS) Friday morning after a live bullet was discovered inside the girls’ locker room at DMS, school officials confirmed.
According to the district, the bullet was reported by two students. DMS administrators immediately contacted the West Warwick Police Department, which responded promptly and launched an investigation. Authorities say the bullet has been secured and no weapon was found in connection with it.
School officials emphasized that all students and staff are safe and that there is no reason at this time to believe there is an ongoing safety risk. However, out of an abundance of caution and concern for the well-being of students and staff, the district made the decision to dismiss both DMS and WWHS within the hour.
There was a heavy police presence at both school buildings as the investigation continued.
West Warwick Public Schools said they will continue working closely with West Warwick Police and will provide an update once the investigation is complete. The district also noted that mental health staff will be available to ensure support resources are accessible to students and staff impacted by the incident.
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