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West Chester Today
By the People, for the People
Gun Seized at Pennsylvania Elementary School, Father Arrested
Student discovered loaded weapon in backpack, immediately notified school counselor
Apr. 14, 2026 at 5:22pm
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The discovery of a loaded firearm in a student's backpack exposes the risks of unsecured weapons, even unintentionally, ending up in schools.West Chester TodayA 58-year-old Pennsylvania man was arrested after his son found a loaded semiautomatic handgun in his backpack while at Harres Hill Elementary School. The student immediately notified a school counselor, and authorities were called to the scene. No one was injured, and the father, Russell Matthews, was taken into custody and charged with endangering the well-being of children and reckless endangerment.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the importance of school safety protocols and the need for secure storage of firearms, especially in homes with children. It also raises questions about gun ownership responsibilities and the potential risks of unsecured weapons, even unintentionally, ending up in schools.
The details
According to the criminal complaint, on April 13, Matthews' son opened his backpack while at school and discovered the loaded handgun inside. Recognizing the weapon as belonging to his father, the student immediately notified a school counselor. Administrators secured the backpack and called the East Pikeland Township Police Department, who arrived on the scene. Matthews later told investigators he had mistakenly placed the firearm in the wrong backpack.
- On April 13, the student discovered the gun in his backpack at Harres Hill Elementary School.
- On April 14, authorities arrested Russell Matthews and charged him with endangering the well-being of children and reckless endangerment.
The players
Russell Matthews
A 58-year-old Pennsylvania resident who was arrested and charged after his son found a loaded handgun in his backpack at school.
Harres Hill Elementary School
The school where the incident occurred, located in East Pikeland, Pennsylvania.
East Pikeland Township Police Department
The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested Russell Matthews.
Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe
The Chester County District Attorney who commented on the incident, praising the school and police for their quick actions.
What they’re saying
“We are grateful to the school officials and the East Pikeland Township Police Department who worked quickly to ensure that Harres Hill Elementary School is safe again.”
— Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe, Chester County District Attorney
What’s next
Matthews' arraignment and bail information are pending as the investigation continues.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the critical importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for secure storage, especially in homes with children. It also highlights the effectiveness of school safety protocols and the collaborative efforts of educators and law enforcement to protect students.
