Former Red Springs High School Coach Charged with Gun Crimes

Jayshawn Carthen accused of bringing gun to school and making threats

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A former assistant coach at Red Springs High School in North Carolina, Jayshawn Carthen, has been arrested and charged with several gun-related offenses, including possession of a firearm on educational property and carrying a concealed weapon. Carthen is also accused of communicating threats toward a student.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about school safety and the presence of firearms on school campuses, which is a serious issue that many communities continue to grapple with. The charges against Carthen also highlight the need for thorough background checks and monitoring of school personnel to ensure the wellbeing of students.

The details

According to the Red Springs Police Chief, officers responded to a complaint about Carthen making threats toward a student on January 20th. Carthen has been charged with three offenses: possession of a gun on educational property (a Glock 19 43x), carrying a concealed weapon, and communicating threats. Carthen is no longer employed by the Public Schools of Robeson County.

  • On January 20, police responded to a complaint about Carthen making threats toward a student.
  • On February 12, Carthen was arrested and charged with the gun-related offenses.

The players

Jayshawn Carthen

A former assistant coach at Red Springs High School who has been charged with several gun-related offenses, including possession of a firearm on educational property and carrying a concealed weapon.

Antoinette Locklear Hurtt

The Red Springs Police Chief who provided details about the charges against Carthen.

Red Springs High School

The school where the alleged incidents involving Carthen took place.

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What they’re saying

“When we get back to the school, we can meet on the dirt road and fight, or imma send someone to shoot up your house”

— Jayshawn Carthen, Former Assistant Coach (Red Springs Police Department)

What’s next

Carthen faced a judge on Wednesday afternoon for a bond hearing, but the outcome of that hearing is still unknown.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring school safety and the need for thorough vetting and monitoring of school personnel to protect students. It also raises questions about access to firearms and the role they play in threatening school environments.