Hobart Police halted a school bus Tuesday and took a 14-year-old Hobart Middle School student into custody after finding an unloaded gun in his possession. Police and school officials credited a Hobart Middle student with reporting the incident that led to the arrest. Police are seeking charges against the student for possessing a handgun on a school bus. Hobart Police spokesman Assistant Chief Nicholas Wardrip said a school resource officer and patrol officers intercepted the bus about 3 p.m. He said the unloaded gun was discovered but no ammunition was found. The male student was taken to the Lake County Juvenile Center in Crown Point. Police said the investigation was ongoing as police work to determine how the student obtained the firearm and what his intent was in bringing it to school. “We commend the bravery of the people who reported this information to school personnel,” police said in a statement. “This incident highlights the importance of the ‘See Something, Say Something’ initiative. We encourage all students and parents to discuss the significance of reporting suspicious behavior to trusted adults and School Resource Officers.” Hobart Superintendent Peggy Buffington sent a message to parents regarding the incident Tuesday. “I am grateful to report that no one was harmed, and at no point was there an immediate threat to the safety of other students or staff,” she said in a statement. Buffington said school officials and authorities learned a middle school student was in possession of an unloaded firearm while on a school bus. “Another student, demonstrating courage and responsibility, reported this concern to their parent, who immediately informed our director of transportation. The Hobart Police Department (HPD) and our School Resource Officer (SRO) promptly intercepted the bus.” Buffington credited the district’s partnership with police and proactive safety protocols for the swift response. She said the incident highlights the importance of students feeling empowered to speak up when they see something concerning. She said school counselors and administrators will be available to speak with any student who may have concerns or questions. Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.