Youth warned after careless use of BB gun causes delayed dismissal at GDCI

(GODERICH, ON) – Two youth have been warned by police, after their careless actions caused the delayed dismissals at Goderich District Collegiate Institute (GDCI), Wednesday afternoon (Feb. 1).

Shortly after 3 p.m., officers from the Huron County OPP responded to the high school after learning that an unknown projectile struck and damaged an exterior classroom window on the northeast side of the building. The school property was cleared by police and it was deemed safe for all staff and students to dismiss just after 4 p.m.

Two neighbouring schools, Goderich Public School and St. Mary’s Catholic School, also had delayed dismissals because of this incident.

Officers were able to determine that the damaged to the window was caused by an errant projectile from a BB gun.

Police were led to a nearby residence where they learned two youth had been in the backyard shooting air soft pellets from a BB gun. Investigators have confirmed one of the rounds left the backyard and accidentally struck the school window.

Police have since warned the youth and spoken to them about firearms safety rules, specifically, always be sure of your target and what lies beyond.

It should be noted there is a Town of Goderich Bylaw prohibiting the discharge of firearms. By-Law 41 of 2006 reads, “Discharge firearms, air gun or spring gun in the Town of Goderich” carries a $125 set fine.

“School safety is a top priority and standard school procedures were initiated to ensure the safety of all students and staff members," said Huron County OPP staff-sergeant Mike Butler. "Once we were able to determine there was no threat or danger posed to students and staff, they were allowed to leave. We would like to thank everyone for their understanding; we realize this delay may have caused some inconvenience; however, it was necessary to ensure the safety of all.”