An adult has been cited after a child arrived at a North Carolina summer camp with a loaded gun inside a lunchbox, officials said.
A fellow camper reported the weapon to a counselor at the Les Myers Park Summer Camp in Concord on Tuesday.
Staff at the camp for 6- and 7-year-olds confronted the camper in question, secured the gun, and called the police. No injuries were reported.
Authorities seized a 9 mm handgun which officials said belonged to a family acquaintance. The gun owner was charged with failure to properly store a firearm to protect minors.
While the camper had “no intent to cause harm” or threaten staff, officials said they won’t be allowed back at camp.
“Bringing any weapon, including a toy weapon, is a violation of camp policies and cause for immediate expulsion,” the city spokesperson said. “The safety of campers and staff is our number one priority, and our Parks and Recreation staff are reviewing current procedures and possible added precautions following today’s incident.”
Citing concern among parents, officials said bag checks began at all summer camps as of Wednesday, July 6.
Officials say the incident should serve as a reminder for gun owners to be responsible and lock up all firearms to keep children safe.