From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — On Thursday, October 2nd, deputies with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop in the parking lot of a local high school.  During the course of the stop, deputies located an empty holster inside the suspect’s vehicle, raising concerns that a firearm may have been discarded in or around the school property.

Out of an abundance of caution, deputies requested assistance from a specialized firearm detection K-9 unit and the Geraldine Police Department.  Together they conducted a thorough search of the school grounds and surrounding area.  During the search, a handgun was recovered on campus property near a school building.

The suspect was taken into custody on unrelated charges and booked into the DeKalb County Detention Center.  The vehicle involved contained additional items believed to be stolen property, which investigators are reviewing.  Further charges may be forthcoming.

Sheriff’s officials emphasize that at no time was there an immediate threat to students or staff, as the incident occurred after school hours and deputies quickly secured the area.

This is an ongoing investigation.  No further details will be released at this time.