HUMPHREYS COUNTY, Tenn. – What could have been a frightening and potentially tragic situation at a high school football game Friday night was averted thanks to quick action by School Resource Officers (SROs) and vigilant spectators.
According to Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis, the incident unfolded during the Waverly vs. McEwen football game on August 22, 2025, when SRO deputies received reports that a student in attendance may have had a firearm in his backpack. Witnesses told officers that the individual had displayed the weapon and allegedly made statements about planning to shoot some players after the game.
Rapid Response Leads to Safe Resolution
Based on the detailed description provided by multiple witnesses, SROs were able to quickly locate the student in question. Upon searching his belongings, deputies recovered what appeared to be a handgun inside his backpack. The suspect was immediately taken into custody without incident.
It was later determined that the weapon was an airsoft pistol designed to look like a real firearm—a distinction that could not have been known by those who saw it.
“Regardless of whether this was a real firearm or not, pulling that out in a crowd of hundreds of people would have caused panic and possibly led to a much more dangerous situation,” Sheriff Davis said in a statement.
Community Cooperation Credited for Averting Crisis
Sheriff Davis praised the quick thinking of those who came forward to report the threat, saying their actions likely prevented harm.
“We are extremely thankful for the individuals who had the courage to speak up,” Davis stated. “Their willingness to report this immediately allowed for a swift response by our SROs, who were able to secure the suspect and the weapon before anyone was hurt.”
Suspect Identified as Out-of-County Student
Authorities revealed that the suspect is a student from a neighboring county school system. The Director of Schools for that district has been notified, and the ongoing investigation will determine what charges the student will face.
While the recovered weapon was not capable of causing lethal harm, law enforcement officials emphasized that the situation was still extremely serious.
“Anytime a weapon—real or replica—is brandished in a school setting or at a school event, we treat it as a direct threat,” Sheriff Davis said. “The safety of our students, players, and community members is our top priority.”
Reassurance to the Public
The Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there is no further threat to the public and that security measures at school events will remain heightened as a precaution.
“We want parents, students, and staff to know that we take every report seriously,” Davis added. “This incident is a reminder of how vital it is for everyone to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately.”
The investigation remains active, and further details—including the charges against the student—are expected to be released in the coming days.
Anyone with additional information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office at (931) 296-2301.
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