Highland Park High School Investigation Update
Police Respond to the Report of a Student in Possession of a Gun on April 4, 2023
April 5, 2023 – On April 4, 2023, Highland Park Police responded to a report from Highland Park High School that a student brought a handgun into the school building. As a result of the police investigation, a handgun was recovered offsite and one juvenile was apprehended, taken into custody, and charged with possession of a firearm in a school and disorderly conduct.
To clarify early information circulated yesterday, five individuals were taken into custody for the purpose of being questioned by police as potential witnesses. At this time, only one individual, a juvenile, has been charged in connection with this incident. Further, it has been determined that there was not a plot by multiple individuals to engage in violence at the High School.
The swift response from Highland Park law enforcement, partner agencies, and Township High School District 113 staff was facilitated by the prompt reporting of concerns from students through the established process at the High School. In line with “see something, say something” guidance from the Department of Homeland Security, the City encourages all community members to report public safety concerns. In an emergency, always dial 911. Additionally, the City’s public-safety non-emergency line is available for 24/7 support at 847.432.7730.
Highland Park High School students are to be commended for their composure under pressure and their calm, measured response to this incident, which greatly assisted law enforcement and school leadership in swiftly securing the high school campus. The City also appreciates the patience and understanding of parents while Highland Park High School was locked down to allow law enforcement the ability to fully investigate the incident. The City will continue to partner with Township High School District 113 and all government entities serving Highland Park to support public safety initiatives through close collaboration and support services.
Community members of all ages have demonstrated tremendous resilience since the trauma of the Highland Park shooting this past summer. The City encourages anyone in need to seek support. Free and confidential multilingual assistance is available from trained navigators at 211 Lake County, who can connect residents with local available resources to manage trauma 24/7 via 211lakecounty.org, calling 211, or texting their zip code to 898211.
While the City recognizes that many in the community may have additional questions about yesterday’s incident, please understand that the Juvenile Court Act prohibits the City from sharing certain information with the public.
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