HIGHLAND PARK, IL — A man licensed to carry a concealed firearm was escorted from school grounds and now faces a misdemeanor charge after bringing a handgun to a high school football game at Wolters Field on Friday, October 4.
According to a statement from Township High School District 113, a K9 weapons detection team on routine patrol alerted to the presence of a firearm as the man approached the entrance to the Highland Park High School varsity football game. The team is regularly deployed at large extracurricular events as part of the district’s security measures.
District security and Highland Park Police responded quickly. Upon questioning, the individual admitted he was carrying a concealed weapon. Law enforcement confirmed he held a valid Illinois Concealed Carry License, but he was nonetheless removed from the area without incident.
According to The Record North Shore, the Highland Park Police Department later confirmed that the individual was charged with violating the terms of his concealed carry license, a misdemeanor offense under Illinois law, which prohibits the possession of firearms on school property by anyone other than law enforcement officers performing official duties. He was released at the scene and is scheduled to appear in court in November.
District 113 Superintendent Dr. Chala Holland praised the swift and coordinated response of the K9 team, school security, and local police, stating their actions ensured the game continued safely and without disruption.
Illinois law is clear: firearms are strictly prohibited on school grounds, regardless of concealed carry status. Even those with valid permits can face criminal charges if they carry in these restricted areas.
This incident underscores the importance of being fully aware of where you can and cannot legally carry. As concealed carriers, the responsibility to stay within the law rests with us. Entering a restricted area—even unintentionally—with a firearm can lead to criminal charges, the loss of your concealed carry license, and other legal consequences.
Every carrier should regularly review local and state laws, especially regarding sensitive locations like schools. While it is your choice whether to take that risk, know that the legal system will not treat the offense lightly if discovered.