Dr. Kevin Whitaker

After an incident Friday involving a gun at Jamestown High School, Jamestown Public Schools District officials will implement the use of a weapons detection system at JHS.

On Jan. 30 at approximately 11 a.m., the Jamestown High School Resource Officer, along with a Jamestown High School administrator, were investigating a report of a student possibly vaping in a bathroom. The student was identified as 18-year-old Narade Gumbs Jr. Gumbs was advised by the school administrator that his backpack would be searched.

During the search, the administrator located a loaded handgun inside the backpack. Gumbs was immediately detained and removed from the school building without further incident.

Gumbs is charged with two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and one count of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

Gumbs is currently being held pending arraignment.

“I can tell you that this incident is very impactful for me. I know that this information may be unsettling to our families and the community as well,” JPS Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whittaker said on the district’s Facebook page. “As always, student safety remains our absolute priority and out of an abundance of caution, we are taking additional and immediate steps to support a secure learning environment.”

Beginning Monday, Feb. 2, JHS will implement the use of weapons detection systems for student entry. The district already has been rolling out weapons detection systems in other district facilities, such as the Tech Academy and at JHS football and basketball games.

“This will involve a new arrival procedure at JHS, and we ask that students and parents be understanding of the necessity of getting this new entry process right,” Whittaker added. “More details and specifics will be shared with high school families over the weekend, and we ask for your cooperation and patience in advance. In addition, we will be offering counseling support for any student or staff who may find themselves affected by this information and who wish to talk to someone.”

Whittaker said the gun situation generates strong emotions.

“What upsets me so deeply is that this thoughtless action by one student has and will have a profound impact on all of us as it cuts to the heart of the trust and community that we have all enjoyed and worked so hard to build,” Whittaker said.

The superintendent thanked the response of the Jamestown Police Department, and additional officers that assisted. Gumbs immediately was taken to JPD.

“In addition, the student will face the maximum disciplinary consequences consistent with our code of conduct,” Whittaker said.