Monessen Teacher Found With Gun at Elementary School

District says weapon was secured, no students or staff were in danger.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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A Monessen City School District employee was found in possession of a gun while on school grounds at the district's elementary school on Thursday. The district and police have not identified the employee, but Monessen police chief David Yuhasz confirmed the person is a teacher. The firearm was found inside the school, but was not displayed or used to threaten anyone. No charges have been filed as the investigation continues.

Why it matters

Incidents involving firearms on school campuses raise serious concerns about student and staff safety, as well as the policies and procedures around weapons in educational settings. This case will likely prompt discussions about gun regulations, security protocols, and the role of law enforcement in schools.

The details

According to the district's letter to parents, the employee is licensed to carry a firearm. The weapon was immediately secured by district police and school administration. Monessen police are working with the Westmoreland County District Attorney's Office on the investigation, but no charges have been filed yet.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Monessen City School District

The public school district serving the city of Monessen, Pennsylvania.

Robert Motte

Superintendent of the Monessen City School District.

David Yuhasz

Chief of the Monessen Police Department.

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What they’re saying

“The individual is licensed to carry a firearm. At no time were students or staff in harm or danger.”

— Robert Motte, Superintendent (Monessen City School District)

“The firearm was found inside the school, and that the weapon was not displayed or used to menace.”

— David Yuhasz, Police Chief (WTAE)

What’s next

Monessen police and the Westmoreland County District Attorney's Office will continue their investigation to determine if any charges will be filed against the teacher.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex issues surrounding firearms and school safety. While the district claims no one was in danger, the presence of a gun on a school campus raises serious concerns that will need to be addressed through policy discussions and reviews of security protocols.