A 14-year-old was taken into police custody after authorities say he shot another teen outside of a Sandy, Utah school Tuesday.
The 16-year-old victim underwent surgery at Intermountain Medical Center soon after the shooting and is listed in “critical but stable” condition, reports ksl.com.
The incident occurred just after 3 p.m. on the campus of Union Middle School. The two students were reportedly in an argument when the younger teen pulled out a gun and shot the 16-year-old twice.
Police took the suspect into custody on suspicion of attempted murder and felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury.
Many students were still on campus for after school activities when the shooting occurred and the building was temporarily locked down. Police searched the school before lifting the lockout and evacuating it. The district posted the following message on its social media accounts informing parents of the shooting.
Now police say they are interviewing several dozen students that witnessed the shooting, which may have been gang-related.
“We have full confidence in the Sandy Police Department, which is conducting a thorough investigation and will continue to provide extra security at our schools,” the Canyons School District said in a statement. “In addition, teachers and administrators will maintain a visible presence in school hallways between classes to monitor activity and positively engage with students.”
Crisis counselors will also be at the school for the remainder of the week.
