08/27/2026
Yesterday, August 26, 2026, at approximately 9:15 a.m., Marana Police Department officers responded to Marana High School regarding a student who was found in possession of a machete that was located in his backpack.
Marana High School's security procedures, including the weapons detection system, worked as intended. As the student approached the weapons detection system, he remembered it was in his bag and turned around to head back to the parking lot. A security monitor noticed his behavior, stopped him, and asked for his backpack. The student complied and accompanied the monitor to the office, where he admitted to having the machete and explained that he had forgotten it was in his bag before arriving at school. The weapon was never removed from the backpack.
The student was arrested in connection with the incident and referred to Pima County Juvenile Court and released to his parents.
This incident was not related to the increase in police presence in the afternoon at Marana High School. Officers were assisting with a separate matter involving a behavioral issue with another student.
We appreciate the vigilance of Marana High School staff and their continued partnership with the Marana Police Department in helping keep students and staff safe.