Firearm Discovered on School Campus; Investigation Ongoing
New Source: City of Casa Grande Police Department
On January 15, 2026, the Casa Grande Police Department investigated a report of a firearm discovered on the campus of Legacy Traditional School, located at 1274 East O’Neil Drive.
The firearm was discovered on a sports field by a student and immediately reported to a staff member, who took custody of the weapon. The firearm, identified as a .22 caliber handgun, was then turned over to the School Safety Officer.
Officers responded promptly and initiated a comprehensive investigation, which included a search of the school campus for any additional weapons or threats. No other weapons or threats were discovered. During the investigation, the school was placed on a temporary hold status as a precautionary measure.
The investigation determined that a 10-year-old student was responsible for bringing the firearm onto campus. It was also determined that the student had made a verbal threat toward another student. As a result, the juvenile was arrested.
Further investigation revealed the student’s father was aware of the threat made by his son prior to the incident. Subsequently, the student’s father, 35-year-old Matthew Ozorkiewicz, was arrested.
Charges being forwarded to the Pinal County Attorney’s Office for review include the following:
Regarding the juvenile:
Possession of a Firearm by a Minor, Misconduct Involving Weapons (bringing a firearm onto school grounds), Threats, and Disruption of an Educational Institution.
Regarding Matthew Ozorkiewicz:
Endangerment, for recklessly endangering another person by knowingly allowing his son to return to school after threats were made the prior day and failing to properly secure the firearm, allowing the juvenile access to the weapon.
This remains an ongoing investigation.
The Casa Grande Police Department reminds all families and community members of the critical importance of firearm safety and responsible storage. We encourage parents and guardians to have ongoing conversations with their children about safety, accountability, and the serious consequences associated with threats and weapons.
