Here are some of the latest news items from this morning, Friday, Feb. 20:
Monessen teacher found with gun in elementary school
A Monessen City School District employee was found in possession of a gun while on school grounds Thursday, the district said in a letter to parents and guardians.
The district and police have not identified the employee.
The gun was found at Monessen’s elementary school, according to the district’s letter, which was posted on its website.
“The individual is licensed to carry a firearm. At no time were students or staff in harm or danger,” Superintendent Robert Motte said in the letter. “The weapon was immediately secured by district police and school administration, and the matter was addressed promptly in accordance with district procedures.”
Monessen police Chief David Yuhasz referred questions to Melanie Jones, spokesperson for the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office, who said the person is a teacher. The firearm was found inside the school, and the weapon was not displayed or used to menace, Jones said.
No charges have been filed. Monessen police are working with county detectives on the investigation.
“Please know that the safety and security of our students and staff remain our highest priority. We take all matters involving school safety seriously and respond swiftly to ensure a safe learning environment for everyone,” the letter said.
Flood watch issued for various counties
A flood watch is in place for several western Pennsylvania counties until Friday afternoon as rain and higher temperatures could lead to ice jam flooding.
The watch covers Armstrong, Butler, Clarion, Fayette, Forest, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, Venango and Westmoreland counties until 1 p.m. Friday.
“With rain and warm temperatures, river ice breakup and jamming is possible over the next 24 hours. A flood watch was issued where issues are ‘most likely’ to occur,” a social media post from National Weather Service Pittsburgh said.
The post listed Connoquenessing Creek, Oil Creek, French Creek, Redbank Creek, Mahoning Creek, Allegheny, Yough and Clarion rivers as potential spots.
