James Hubert Blake High School leadership has shared new details with families following a violent incident on campus that left a student injured and prompted immediate changes to school safety procedures.
In a letter sent to the Blake community on April 29, MCPS and school officials confirmed that a physical altercation in the school’s parking lot escalated into a “gun incident” during lunch. One student was injured, and the alleged suspect, identified as a young adult who is not an MCPS student, was taken into custody at the scene.
According to the letter, a Community Engagement Officer and school security staff quickly intervened, disarming and apprehending the suspect before Montgomery County Police, who were already on site, made the arrest. Additional officers responded within minutes and conducted a full sweep of the building to ensure the campus was safe.
The school was placed into a hold status to secure both the interior and exterior of the building while the situation was addressed. Officials said the internal investigation concluded around 1:30pm, but the hold remained in place to support a controlled and safe dismissal.
Montgomery County Police said the incident began around 11:29am when officers responded to a reported fight in the parking lot. During the altercation, a handgun was discovered after it reportedly fell to the ground. A 19-year-old male was taken into custody at the scene.
Shortly after, a juvenile male arrived at a nearby hospital with a gunshot wound. Investigators believe he was involved in the initial altercation. Police say the investigation remains active.
School officials acknowledged that several Blake students were involved in the incident, calling the behavior a violation of the student code of conduct and a direct contradiction to the school’s focus on safety and well-being.
“Our hearts are with every student, staff member, and family as we navigate this horrible situation,” the letter stated, adding that the injured student is currently in stable condition.
In response, the school is implementing several immediate safety changes beginning April 30. Students will no longer be permitted to eat lunch outside for the remainder of the school year, and outside food deliveries such as DoorDash and Uber Eats will be prohibited. The school will also increase staff supervision throughout the building as part of an enhanced safety effort.
To support students and staff, Blake High School will operate on a three-hour delayed opening the following day, with students reporting at 10:45am. The first period will serve as an extended advisory to allow time for counseling and mental health support, which will remain available for as long as needed.
School leaders also invited families to a community meeting scheduled for April 30 at 7pm in the school auditorium to discuss the incident, the response, and next steps.
Officials emphasized that maintaining a safe environment will require a collective effort from students, staff, and families moving forward.
