BREAKING: Handgun In Charlotte School Bathroom Believed Brought In By 5-Year-Old

CHARLOTTE, NC -- Charlotte-Mecklenburg school officials are investigating after a handgun was found in a school bathroom at Palisades Park Elementary School in southwest Charlotte, according to news sources. The school notified parents on Wednesday they should check their children's' backpacks before they leave home.

According to Robin Kanady from local television station Fox46 the handgun was brought in by a five-year-old student. (For more information on this story and other Charlotte free newsletters and Breaking News Alerts click here.)

There were rounds in the magazine of the weapon, not in the chamber and was brought to school by a 5-year-old boy, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools police told F0x46.

"Safety protocols were immediately implemented and CMS law enforcement was notified," CMS said in a statement to parents.

The boy told police someone else placed the weapon in his book bag and authorities say they don't believe he intended to use the gun.

The following is a copy of the message CMS says they sent to parents following the incident.

Good afternoon Palisades Park Elementary families:

Keeping families aware of incidents that happen on campus is important. This morning during arrival a weapon was found in one of our hallway restrooms. Safety protocols were immediately implemented and CMS law enforcement was notified. Students and staff are safe and the instructional day was not interrupted. Please check your children’s backpacks daily to ensure that appropriate items are being brought to school.
Thank you for your support of PPES.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.