Carbondale police arrest 15-year-old after firearm found in backpack

KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) – Carbondale police arrested a 15-year-old boy Monday after officers observed part of a firearm protruding from his open backpack.

Officers made contact with the juvenile around noon in the 700 block of South Lewis Lane. The firearm and ammunition were recovered, and the teen was taken into custody without incident.

He was later released to a family member pending a court appearance on a charge of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.

In accordance with the Illinois Juvenile Justice Act, the boy’s name is not being released. Police said the investigation remains active and ongoing.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Carbondale Police Department at (618) 549-2121. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Carbondale/SIU Crime Stoppers at (618) 549-COPS (2677), the Murphysboro/Jackson County line at (618) 687-COPS (2677), or the “Crime Stoppers” tab. Cash rewards are available for information that leads to an arrest.