Loaded Gun Found on 5-Year-Old

Durham Police don't know how a loaded gun ended up in the book bag of a 5-year-old at Club Boulevard Humanity Magnet School.

The child's older brother called and warned the school about the gun Wednesday. He thought it was a toy, but when teachers checked, the 32-caliber pistol was very real and quite loaded. The boy was suspended for 10 days while school officials investigate the incident.

Police have charged the boyfriend of the child's mother.

Barry Bridges, 24, of Ruth Street, was charged with failure to secure a firearm to protect a minor. Bond for Bridges, who works as a gravedigger, was set at $500, police said.

The boy could also face year-long suspension from Club Boulevard Humanities Magnet School.

``It's a reflection of what happens at home and in the rest of the world,'' said Superintendent Ann Denlinger. ``It's tragic anytime a 5-year-old is introduced to this type of situation by adults. I'm grateful that nobody was hurt.''