An imitation firearm was discovered on school property at Riddle Elementary School in Rochester on Tuesday, October 27, according to a statement from the school.
School officials said a student self-reported the situation upon arriving at the building Tuesday morning. The matter was addressed immediately, and officials said there is no ongoing safety concern.
The incident prompted Rochester Community School Corporation to send a letter to families reminding them of a change in Indiana law regarding imitation firearms on school property.
According to the letter, signed by Superintendent Jana K. Vance, Indiana Code 35-47-9-2 took effect July 1, 2026, making it a Class B misdemeanor to knowingly or intentionally possess an imitation firearm on school property or a school bus.
The school corporation explained that imitation firearms generally include objects resembling real firearms, even if they cannot fire actual ammunition.
Examples identified in the letter include toy guns that closely resemble real firearms, airsoft guns, BB guns, pellet guns, replica handguns and rifles, and other objects designed to look like actual firearms.
In addition to potential criminal or juvenile proceedings, students could face disciplinary action under the school corporation’s policies and student handbook.
The district is encouraging parents and guardians to discuss the law with their children and periodically check backpacks and belongings to prevent prohibited items from accidentally being brought to school.
The school did not provide additional details about the imitation firearm discovered Tuesday or indicate whether any disciplinary action was taken.
Families with questions about the law or school policies are encouraged to contact their child’s building principal.