Tampa Republic

The Tampa Police Department is currently investigating an incident involving a firearm at Sligh Middle Magnet School. The event took place on October 21, 2024, and fortunately, there were no active threats to the school or individuals.

Akeen Barthol, a 32-year-old physical education teacher, left his backpack containing a loaded handgun unsecured in a gym storage room accessible to students. A 13-year-old student later took the backpack without permission to a nearby restroom, removed personal items from it, and left the gun and backpack behind. Another student found the abandoned backpack and gun in the restroom and promptly informed school staff. The staff then notified the School Resource Officer.

"Anytime a gun is found on school property is deeply concerning,” stated Chief Lee Bercaw. “We are thankful that this incident did not result in tragedy, and we commend the responsible actions taken by the student who discovered the firearm. Our top priority is to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future."

Barthol was arrested and charged with Possession of a Weapon on School Grounds and Allowing a Minor to Obtain a Firearm to Possess on School Grounds. He was taken to Orient Road Jail.

The 13-year-old involved was charged with Grand Theft (Firearm) and transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center.