(RUSH, Colo.) — The El Paso County Sheriff's Office (EPSO) said a 12-year-old student is facing charges after allegedly bringing a gun to a school in the Miami-Yoder School District. On Thursday, Nov. 21 at around 12:43 p.m., EPSO responded to the school after they received a call from an employee who said a school security officer had detained a student after finding a gun in the student's backpack. Upon arrival, deputies initiated an investigation, secured the handgun, and ensured the safety of the school, students, and staff. According to EPSO, the student showed the gun to another student while riding the bus home on Wednesday, Nov. 20. After being notified, school security and staff searched the student's locker and found the handgun in the student's backpack. Courtesy: FOX21 News Chief Photojournalist Dez RoweCourtesy: FOX21 News Chief Photojournalist Dez RoweCourtesy: FOX21 News Chief Photojournalist Dez RoweCourtesy: FOX21 News Chief Photojournalist Dez Rowe The student was then located, removed from class, and escorted to a secure location. The weapon was not loaded, as the student had found it unloaded at home before taking it to school. "This situation highlights why it is crucial for parents to regularly check their children's belongings before and after school," said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. "It is crucial to stay informed about your child's communications, whereabouts, friendships, and any potential access to contraband or weapons." Deputies responded to the 12-year-old's home and met with them and their parents. The student is now facing several charges including; Unlawfully Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Illegal Possession of a Handgun by a Juvenile, and Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon on School Grounds.  "I am grateful this issue was quickly addressed without incident, thanks to the prompt actions of the Miami-Yoder School District and my deputies," Roybal added. "Their swift response ensured no harm occurred, and my deputies conducted a thorough investigation. Ensuring the safety of our schools is a top priority for my Office. We will continue closely monitoring and investigating incidents like this and remain fully committed to protecting schools throughout El Paso County." According to EPSO, officials at Miami-Yoder School District have confirmed communication with parents regarding the incident. Last week, on Friday, Nov. 22, a concerned parent contacted FOX21 News and claimed parents had not received any information regarding the incident besides a school automated message saying there was a gun at the school. When the parent reached out about the situation, according to the email sent to FOX21, a staff member replied that the notification was sent as soon as the investigation was complete and that there would be no more updates due to there being no threat, and therefore, there would be no emergency meeting. FOX21 News has reached out to Miami-Yoder Schools but has not heard back. We will update this article as we learn more.