Michigan Mom Claims 11-Year-Old Son Expelled After Dismantling Classmate’s Loaded Gun at School

By Ronald Rodriguez On Sep 26, 2025

Lansing, MI – A troubling incident at Dwight Rich School of the Arts in Lansing, Michigan, has sparked controversy after a mother said her 11-year-old son was expelled for dismantling a loaded gun brought to school by a classmate. Savitra McClurkin is fighting to find her son, Sakir Everett, another school placement after the expulsion in May, highlighting concerns about school safety and disciplinary decisions.

A Disturbing Incident Unfolds in Lansing Middle School

According to McClurkin, the incident began when an unidentified student brought a loaded firearm onto school grounds. The student allegedly handed the loaded gun directly to her son in a bathroom, saying, “Like here, take this, hold on to this.” Sakir, who has experience with hunting and gun safety, understood the danger and illegality of possessing a firearm at school.

“Sakir’s natural reaction was there’s no way I’m going to hold on to this gun all day,” McClurkin said. Following this, Sakir took the gun to class where, in the presence of a teacher and other students, he dismantled the weapon for safety. He then stored the disassembled parts inside a classroom heater and disposed of the bullets in a garbage can.

His mother emphasized that Sakir dismantled the firearm to prevent harm, stating, “He didn’t want it on his person, but he didn’t want nobody to mess with it.” When asked why her son did not immediately inform an adult, McClurkin explained that he was frightened and unsure of what to do since he was not taught the proper protocol for such a situation.

Lansing School District’s Response and Investigation

The Lansing School District released a statement affirming that the decision to expel Sakir came after a “thorough investigation, including review of video evidence, numerous witness statements, and careful deliberation, as well as a disciplinary hearing.” They also clarified that the full account has not been publicly shared and warned against selective reporting that could create a false narrative.

Notably, the district said, “Disciplinary action would not have been warranted for disarming another student,” but reaffirmed that the safety of students and staff remains paramount, and all decisions are made accordingly. The student who brought the firearm was taken into custody by law enforcement.

Impact on Sakir and the Family’s Fight for Justice

McClurkin expressed frustration and disappointment with the school’s handling of the case and the broader system, stating, “I’m upset with everybody … the district … some of these teachers, administrators, as well as the city, because they did not handle this right.” She has appeared before the Lansing School Board seeking answers and assistance but has faced obstacles due to privacy laws.

Since the expulsion, Sakir has been denied admission to four other schools because of the record, severely limiting his education options. Meanwhile, McClurkin has been keeping him engaged through sports and an unaccredited online program, but she remains determined to find a suitable, accredited school for her son.

“They really just did, not just my son, they did me wrong, too. All I’m trying to do is just be a good parent and make sure that my son is getting an education,” McClurkin said.

Broader Concerns About School Safety and Disciplinary Policies

This case highlights the complexity schools face when dealing with firearms on campus and how disciplinary actions can sometimes lead to unintended consequences for students trying to act responsibly. The Lansing School District’s statement and McClurkin’s account reveal a tension between maintaining safety and ensuring fair treatment of students.

Incident occurred in May 2024 at Dwight Rich School of the Arts
Sakir Everett is an 11-year-old seventh grader with no prior disciplinary record
Sakir dismantled the firearm in the presence of a teacher and classmates
Lansing Police took the student who brought the gun into custody
McClurkin has been unable to find Sakir enrollment in four other schools

As this story develops, it underscores the need for clear protocols on firearm presence in schools and adequate guidance for students on how to respond to such dangerous situations.

For more information on the incident and responses, you can read the full report from NBC News here.

What Do You Think About This Incident?

This incident raises important questions about school safety, disciplinary fairness, and how children should be guided in emergencies involving weapons. What are your thoughts on the school’s decision to expel Sakir? Have you encountered or heard about similar situations in schools? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!