Mesquite High Student Arrested for Threats, Stolen Gun

Ridgecrest police say quick response prevented potential tragedy

Feb. 25, 2026 at 10:18pm

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A Mesquite High School student in Ridgecrest, California was arrested after being found on campus with a loaded stolen handgun and high-capacity magazine, following alleged threats made toward another student. Police say the rapid response of the school resource officer and additional officers likely prevented a potentially tragic incident.

Why it matters

School safety and gun violence prevention are ongoing concerns, especially in the wake of past tragic school shootings. This incident highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring, swift law enforcement response, and effective partnerships between schools and police to address potential threats and keep campuses secure.

The details

According to police, the Mesquite High student was found with a loaded 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen from Long Beach, as well as a high-capacity magazine. The student was arrested and charged with multiple offenses including criminal threats, possession of firearms on school grounds, and carrying a concealed and loaded firearm.

  • On February 25, 2026, officers responded to a report of a student on campus at Mesquite High School who was in possession of a gun and had made threats.

The players

Ridgecrest Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident at Mesquite High School and arrested the student.

Mesquite High School

The high school in Ridgecrest, California where the incident occurred involving a student with a stolen handgun and threats.

Officer Franco

The school resource officer who was notified of the situation and immediately requested additional officers, leading to the swift response and containment of the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Due to the rapid response of school staff and law enforcement, the situation was swiftly contained. While investigations are ongoing, it is clear that the immediate actions taken by Officer Franco and responding officers likely prevented a potentially tragic incident.”

— Ridgecrest Police Department

What’s next

The judge will decide on the student's bail status as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the critical importance of strong partnerships between schools and law enforcement, as well as the need for vigilant monitoring and swift response to potential threats in order to maintain campus safety and prevent tragedies.