By: Richard L. Smith
An investigation into a discarded handgun found near Union High School on November 21, 2024, has been concluded, resulting in the arrest of two students.
Authorities acted swiftly after a local resident discovered a fanny pack containing a loaded handgun in bushes near Stahuber Drive and alerted police at 8:11 a.m.
Responding patrol officers and detectives reviewed surveillance footage from a nearby home, which showed two individuals hiding the fanny pack.
Police identified the suspects as Union High School students with the assistance of school staff and a school resource officer.
Union High School was placed under lockdown as a precaution during the investigation.
Officers promptly located and arrested the two students in their respective classrooms without incident.
The suspects have been identified as 19-year-old Woodeberlens Audies of Perry Avenue, Union, and a 17-year-old juvenile, also from Union.
The firearm, a Smith & Wesson M&P .380, was loaded and had its serial number defaced. Both suspects face charges for illegal possession of a handgun and possession of a defaced firearm.
Police have stated that both individuals remain in custody at headquarters while reports and criminal charges are finalized.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding this case or other crimes to contact the Union Police Department’s Detective Bureau at 908-851-5030. All tips will remain confidential.
To ensure community safety, police have increased patrols in the area of Union High School and plan to maintain an enhanced presence for the time being.