Teen Charged, Second Held in School Gunfire

A 13-year-old boy accused of firing a shot into the ceiling of a school cafeteria this week had more than 100 bullets and a large knife in his backpack, authorities said Friday.

The youth was sitting at a table in the Dimmitt Middle School cafeteria Monday when he said, “Let’s get on the news!” He then jumped up on the table, pulled out a revolver and fired the shot, according to a detective’s affidavit.

The boy was charged Friday with assault, kidnapping, unlawful possession of a firearm by a minor and possession of a stolen firearm. He also was charged with carrying a dangerous weapon on school grounds, a misdemeanor.

The youth is to be arraigned Monday in juvenile court. If convicted he could be incarcerated until he turns 21.

A 12-year-old who police say helped plan the shooting was also in custody in the case. He had not yet been charged but may face similar counts, officials said.