On March 11, 2026, at approximately 1:00 p.m., a staff member at Menlo-Atherton High School observed two students approach an athletic locker and place an item inside. The staff member noted that the students appeared to intentionally block the view of the locker while doing so, which raised concern.
After the students left the area, the staff member opened the locker and discovered a backpack containing a firearm. School staff immediately notified the Atherton Police Department’s School Resource Officer (SRO), who responded promptly, secured the firearm, and began an investigation.
Through the investigation, the SRO was able to identify the two students involved. Charges have been filed that include possession of a firearm on a school campus, minor in possession of a handgun, and possession of a firearm without a serial number.
At no time was the firearm brandished on campus, and there are no known threats to the campus community related to this incident. Due to the vigilance of school staff and the quick response of the School Resource Officer, the firearm was safely secured and the situation was addressed quickly.
The Atherton Police Department and the Sequoia Union High School District take incidents involving weapons on campus extremely serious. We are grateful for the attentiveness of the staff member who reported the suspicious activity, which allowed for a swift response and ensured the continued safety of students and staff.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Atherton Police Department at 650-688-6500.
We remain committed to working closely with school staff and the community to maintain a safe learning environment for all students.
