A 9-year-old boy was arrested in Ocala, Florida, after classmates alerted the driver that he was carrying a loaded .38 caliber revolver on the bus taking him to his elementary school.

The incident occurred Monday morning as the bus was transporting students to College Park Elementary School, in Marion County.

The students notified the driver after seeing the boy with the gun, prompting a 911 call. Ocala Police Department officers responded immediately and located the minor who had been pointed out by his classmates.

Police reported that the boy was detained without major incident, although he initially resisted officers. A loaded .38 caliber revolver was recovered on the floor near his seat.

The gun belonged to a relative.

According to the investigation, the revolver was taken from the boy's uncle's room, who stated that he kept it in the top drawer of his nightstand. The minor allegedly took advantage of a moment when his uncle was not looking while he was showering to steal the gun.

The student admitted to police that he showed the revolver to other classmates, although he claimed he did not intend to cause any harm. According to the affidavit, he said he planned to show it “only if he was bullied at school.”

Multiple charges against the minor

The boy faces serious charges, including: possession of a firearm on school property, possession of a firearm by a minor, carrying a concealed firearm, armed robbery, grand theft of a firearm, resisting arrest without violence, and disruption of a school function.

The Ocala Police Department said the gun was legally purchased and registered by the relative.

Police recognized the role of the students who immediately notified the driver.

“This incident demonstrates why it is critical to remain vigilant and report concerns promptly,” the statement said.

The investigation is ongoing, and it has not been determined whether any additional arrests could be made in connection with the case.