BY PHIL CUSTODIO
Clarkston News Editor
Investigation into a report of gun-brandishing teens over the weekend showed no gun was used.
“The suspects involved have since been identified and investigated by police, revealing no firearm was actually brandished,” said Clarkston Schools Superintendent Dr. Rod Rock. “The item in question was a gray-and-black bottle of cologne. A thorough investigation of these individuals and search of their homes, as well as further questioning of the witnesses corroborates this finding.”
Some cologne bottles are made in the shape of guns, but that was not the case in this incident, said Sgt. Rich Cummins, Oakland County Sheriff’s Independence Township substation.
Investigation continues and the county prosecutor will decide if charges are to be brought, Cummins said.
According to police reports, two students were walking home from Clarkston Junior High School on Paramus Street at about 3:30 p.m. last Friday, April 28, when four high-school age boys in a tan sedan shouted and pointed what looked like a black and silver handgun at them.
The students ran home, and one of their mothers was able to take a quick photograph of the vehicle to provide to Oakland County Sheriff’s deputies.
Deputies immediately responded, and secured the immediate area and surrounding schools.
“The (junior high) students did a great job. They did what they were supposed to do in an incident like this,” Cummins said. “They got away from the area and notified their moms.”
They also spoke to deputies and assisted in the investigation, the sergeant said.
Deputies advised the school district to proceed with dismissal at Clarkston Elementary, the only school still in session at the time, Rock said.
“Our students’ safety is of utmost importance, and as such, our buildings and parking lots are monitored throughout the school day and at dismissal,” the superintendent said. “Please contact your school principal or me at 248-623-5400 if you have any questions or concerns.”