Williamsport Area School District acknowledged in social media posts Wednesday that while conducting a search of a student’s backpack, a handgun was discovered.

The student was taken into custody by state troopers and the district says it will pursue both disciplinary measures within the school system and, if applicable, criminal charges.

“We want to assure our families and community that no threats were made, and the weapon was never displayed,” the social media post said.

“We followed all safety protocols, and there was no risk posed to any other students or staff during this process,” District Superintendent Timothy Bowers said in an emailed statement.

The incident happened Wednesday at the high school when officials were conducting a search of a student’s belongings “based on reasonable suspicion of drug possession,” the social media post said.

The district is planning to have an increased police presence at schools as a “cautionary” measure, both the emailed statement from Bowers and the social media post said.

“We will always prioritize the safety of our students and staff and we remain committed to providing a secure environment for learning,” the social media post said.