Cops: Gun found in second-grader's backpack

A loaded handgun was found inside a second-grader's backpack at a Philadelphia charter school, police said.

Authorities were called to Universal Samuel Daroff Charter School, located on Vine Street near 58th, around 4 p.m. for a report of a gun in the principal's office.

Officials told police a 7-year-old boy was putting a folder into his backpack at the end of the day and noticed the gun. He then alerted a teacher.

"We're currently investigating the specifics of how this kid came in contact with the weapon," said Lt. John Walker of Southwest Detectives. "We still have to review surveillance video. We have to talk to family members who drop him off school, family members who pick him up and students at the school."

Walker said the gun was a .38 caliber revolver loaded with five rounds of ammunition. The student reported that he brought his backpack into school and had it with him in the classroom the entire day.

The investigation is ongoing. So far, no charges have been filed.