Three teens facing slew of charges after alleged armed robbery at Barrie high school

Maple Ridge Secondary School went into lockdown Monday morning as Barrie police seized a handgun and arrested three teens.

Three teens, aged 15, 16, and 17, are facing a slew of charges after an alleged armed robbery at Maple Ridge Secondary School in Barrie.

School intercoms blared “lockdown” on Monday morning as students went to secure areas, away from doors and windows, while sirens flooded the school property.

The Barrie Police Tactical Unit swarmed Prince William Way shortly after 9:30 a.m., prompting a lockdown and eventually a hold-and-secure as officers investigated throughout the day.

“I was really shook, and the adrenaline started pumping and I didn’t know what to think,” recalls a Maple Ridge Secondary School student.

Police say a handgun was seized and three teens were arrested on the property. Their identities cannot be released under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

• WATCH: Handgun seized and three youths arrested at Maple Ridge Secondary School

Two of the accused face multiple charges, including robbery using a firearm, using a firearm while committing an offence, pointing a firearm, careless use of a firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, carrying a concealed weapon, unauthorized possession of a firearm, and possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition.

The third youth is charged with possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition and possession of a prohibited device or ammunition.

The Simcoe County District School Board notified parents by email as the situation unfolded.

The lockdown was lifted shortly before 11 a.m., and the school was later placed in a hold-and-secure around 1 p.m. to allow officers to conduct a search for more evidence.

The school board eventually dismissed students at their regular time.

Police said no injuries were reported. “Barrie police understand that this event may cause concern within the community. We want to assure the public there is no ongoing safety threat,” states officers in a release.