School firearm incidents reported in Argentina and Ecuador

Two separate incidents involving firearms at schools in Argentina and Ecuador have raised concerns regarding student safety.

In Villa Dorrego, La Matanza, a 15-year-old student brought a .32 caliber revolver to the Instituto Jesús María Plaza. The weapon accidentally discharged when the student dropped his backpack in the classroom. No injuries were reported. The student's mother stated she was unaware of the weapon, which reportedly belonged to the boy's father. The student faces charges for illegal possession of a civilian weapon.

In Guayaquil, Ecuador, a student was wounded during an incident at the Héroes de Tarqui educational unit in the Florida Norte district. Authorities reported that one student brought a firearm to the school and, during a break, shot a classmate in the leg. The injured minor is reported to be in stable condition. Police have implemented the ‘Plan Escudo’ to increase security in educational institutions following the event.