A student took an unloaded firearm to an Orcutt elementary school on Wednesday, but the handgun was safely recovered by law enforcement officers. 

Shortly after 1 p.m., Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Pine Grove School, 1050 E. Rice Ranch Road. The campus is in the Orcutt Union School District.

A classmate told a staff member about the weapon, leading school officials to contact law enforcement officers, said Raquel Zick, Sheriff’s Office public information officer.

Deputies responded to the school and safely recovered the firearm, which was not loaded, she said. The student did not have any ammunition for the weapon.

“At this time, there is no indication that the student intended to use the handgun to harm anyone,” Zick said, noting that due to the lack of ammunition weapon could not be fired. 

“This incident is a strong reminder of the importance of speaking up. The student who reported this situation did the right thing, and their decision to tell an adult allowed the situation to be addressed quickly and safely,” Zick said. 

Authorities did not identify the type of firearm beyond confirming it was a handgun.

They also are continuing to investigate how the student obtained the weapon. 

Appropriate follow-up will be handled in coordination with school officials, Zick added. 

The names of the juveniles involved are not publicly available. 

“The Sheriff’s Office encourages students, parents, and community members to remember: If you see something, say something. Reporting concerning behavior to a trusted adult, school staff member, or law enforcement can prevent a situation from becoming dangerous and helps keep everyone safe,” Zick added.