This article is related to this previous incident: Disturbance, Bookcliff Middle School, Orchard Ave & 29 1/4 Rd
From the Grand Junction Police Department:
On March 7, 2025, at approximately 9:05 a.m., officers with the Grand Junction Police Department and District 51 Safety and Security responded to a report of a student bringing a handgun to Bookcliff Middle School and making threatening statements to classmates. Officers quickly located the handgun and took the student into custody.
The juvenile (age 13) was transported to the Division of Youth Services on the following charges:
- Felony Menacing (10 counts)
- Weapon Possession School/Childcare – Firearm
- Possession of Handgun by Juvenile
- Theft
- Interference with Staff, Faculty, or Student of Educational Institutions
There were no injuries in this incident, and the handgun was not discharged at any time. School administration placed Bookcliff Middle School in a shelter-in-place while officers conducted their investigation.
Because the individual taken into custody is a juvenile, their identity will not be released in accordance with the Colorado Open Records Act laws. This is believed to be an isolated incident with no ongoing threat to the school or community.
This incident remains under investigation, and there is no further information available at this time.
From Mesa County District 51:
Subject: Bookcliff Middle School Shelter-in-Place Follow-up
Dear Bookcliff Middle School Families,
We want to inform you about a situation that occurred today at Bookcliff Middle School and reassure you that the safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority.
Earlier today, a student brought a weapon to school. Fortunately, another student quickly reported this to the BMS administration, who placed the school in a shelter-in-place and called District 51 Safety and Security and the Grand Junction Police Department responded to assist. They immediately contacted the student, conducted an investigation, and located the weapon. The student was detained and D51 and the GJPD continued their investigation to ensure no further safety concerns for students or staff.
Once it was determined that there was no ongoing safety concern, the shelter was lifted, and normal school operations resumed. We are incredibly appreciative of the quick actions of our students, staff, Safety Team, and the Grand Junction Police Department in handling the situation.
We can’t share details regarding specific students because of privacy and confidentiality laws. However, having a weapon to school is a serious violation that carries significant school and legal consequences, which could include suspension, expulsion, and/or legal charges from local law enforcement.
We understand that situations like this can be concerning, and we want to emphasize the importance of students speaking up when they see or hear something that doesn’t seem right or can cause harm to themselves or others. The safety of our school community is a shared responsibility, and today’s events highlight the vital role that students, staff, and families play in maintaining a safe learning environment.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our school administration at 970-254-6220. Thank you for your continued support in keeping Bookcliff Middle School a safe place for all students.
Sincerely,
Bookcliff Middle School Administration