Tampa Police Department Press Release:
TAMPA, FL. (March 13, 2025) – – On Thursday, March 13, 2025, Tampa Police arrested a 15-year-old female student after she was found to be in possession of a loaded handgun at Middleton High School.
“The safety of our students is our top priority,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Bringing a firearm onto school property is a serious offense that will not be tolerated. We commend the student who came forward and the swift action of our School Resource Officer.”
The School Resource Officer working Middleton High was alerted to the situation by a concerned student who reported that the individual, Anabella Fuentes (white female, 1/9/2010), had a gun in her possession. During an administrative search, the SRO recovered a loaded .22 caliber handgun from Fuentes.
Fuentes, who did not make any threats towards the school, staff, or other students, was arrested without incident just before 11:00 am.
“This quick resolution reinforces the fact that strong partnerships between a vigilant student, school officials, and an engaged School Resource Officer keep our school campuses safe and that situations are addressed immediately,” added Chief Bercaw.
Fuentes was transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center, charged with Possession of a Weapon on School Property.
