SEAFORD, Va. - A 6-year-old brought a gun to school on Friday, according to the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office.
The student attended Seaford Elementary School.
Deputies were called to the school where they found an older gun in the child's backpack.
Deputies say there is no reason to believe the student intended to harm anyone.
Authorities said another student told the teacher that his classmate had a gun in his book bag.
The principal sent out a phone call to parents in part that said, "School staff received a report a weapon being brought on school grounds today"
Deputies said it was an antique gun in terrible condition, not loaded and not functional.
"When you have a child it's like your heart walks around out of your chest," said parent Sara Escamilla, "At first, your knee-jerk reaction is, is my kid okay."
Under state code the child could face suspension or expulsion. The district isn't saying exactly what steps they will take in this particular case but did use this situation as a reminder to parents.
The principal said on the message, "Please take this opportunity to speak with your child about the importance of safety and what to do if they are ever involved in a situation in or out of school involving a dangerous item."
Escamilla said today she talked to her son about gun safety.
"I think a lot of it begins at home, talk to your children, maybe take a second look in that backpack before your kid leaves the house. You can never be too careful," said Escamilla.
The school says part of their investigation is speaking with the parents of the child who brought the gun to school.
No charges have been filed and authorities said the investigation is ongoing.
