Silver Spring, Maryland, December 6, 2025
A 17-year-old student was arrested at Northwood High School in Silver Spring, Maryland, after being found with a loaded 3D-printed firearm during a school altercation. Police responded promptly, charging the student with multiple firearm-related offenses. No injuries were reported, but the incident has raised concerns about the presence of ghost guns in schools, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and strict weapon policies.
Silver Spring, Maryland – December 6, 2025
Northwood High School Student Arrested for Bringing Loaded ‘Ghost Gun’ to School
A 17-year-old student at Northwood High School in Silver Spring, Maryland, was arrested on December 5, 2025, after being found with a loaded 3D-printed firearm during a school altercation. The incident prompted a swift response from Montgomery County police, who charged the student with multiple firearm-related offenses.
Incident Details
At approximately 8:23 a.m., officers responded to a report of a student with a gun at Northwood High School, located at 11200 Old Georgetown Road. The call indicated that two students were involved in a fight, and a witness had informed school staff that one of the students was armed. Upon arrival, police conducted a search and discovered a loaded 3D-printed, privately manufactured firearm (PMF) in the student’s waistband. The student was arrested without incident and charged as an adult with possessing a firearm without a serial number, possessing a firearm by a minor, and possessing a loaded handgun on a person. The student, a resident of Silver Spring, was processed at the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit and is awaiting a bond hearing. No injuries were reported during the incident, and the school was placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure. The lockdown was lifted once the situation was resolved. The Montgomery County Department of Police is continuing to investigate the matter. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about the presence of untraceable firearms, commonly known as “ghost guns,” in school environments. Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Background Context
Northwood High School has previously faced similar incidents. In September 2025, two 15-year-old students were taken into custody after a report of a gun on campus led to a lockdown. A BB gun was recovered during that investigation. These events underscore the importance of strict policies regarding weapons on school property and the need for continuous vigilance to maintain a safe educational environment. The Montgomery County Public Schools system has a zero-tolerance policy for weapons on school grounds, emphasizing the safety and well-being of all students and staff members. The community is encouraged to report any concerns or information related to school safety to local authorities promptly.
Conclusion
This recent incident at Northwood High School serves as a stark reminder of the challenges schools face regarding safety and the presence of dangerous items, such as ghost guns. As communities engage in conversations about school safety measures and policies, it will be critical to maintain vigilant communication among parents, educators, and law enforcement to foster a secure educational environment.
FAQ
- What happened at Northwood High School on December 5, 2025?
- A 17-year-old student was arrested for bringing a loaded 3D-printed firearm to school during an altercation with another student.
- What charges were filed against the student?
- The student was charged with possessing a firearm without a serial number, possessing a firearm by a minor, and possessing a loaded handgun on a person.
- Was anyone injured during the incident?
- No injuries were reported during the incident.
- What is a “ghost gun”?
- A “ghost gun” is a privately manufactured firearm, often 3D-printed, that lacks a serial number, making it untraceable.
- Has Northwood High School experienced similar incidents before?
- Yes, in September 2025, two 15-year-old students were taken into custody after a report of a gun on campus led to a lockdown, during which a BB gun was recovered.
| Incident Date | Location | Student Age | Charges | Injuries | Weapon Type | Previous Incidents |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 5, 2025 | Northwood High School, Silver Spring, Maryland | 17 | Possessing a firearm without a serial number, possessing a firearm by a minor, possessing a loaded handgun on a person | No | 3D-printed, privately manufactured firearm (ghost gun) | Yes, September 2025: Two 15-year-old students arrested after a report of a gun on campus led to a lockdown, during which a BB gun was recovered. |
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