Salem-Keizer Public Schools consider installing metal detectors after fatal off-campus shooting

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Salem-Keizer schools may soon be equipped with metal detectors.

The idea of putting the detectors in the district’s middle and high schools was brought up in a school board meeting Tuesday night, just days after a shooting off campus left one teen dead and two others injured.

On March 8, South Salem High School went into lockdown while police investigated the area of Bush Prairie Park after 16-year-old Jose Vasquez-Valenzuela died at the scene.

“A child died last week. It could have been prevented with a metal detector, as it is unknown if he had had the gun on him that morning,” one parent said. “He could have had the gun in the school. We don't know still."

Superintendent Andrea Castañeda said the district has considered the change for months, but felt compelled to take action after this event.

"When we look at what's going on in our community and specifically the firearm data in our community, we do have to ask ourselves, are we taking the measures necessary to keep our schools safe?" Castañeda said.

It is unclear where the district will find the money for the proposed metal detectors. Superintendent Castañeda previously told KOIN 6 News the district was $32 million in debt, but said they will discuss the finances of this change at a later date.

The district will host an event on March 22 that will allow parents, students and the community to try different metal detectors.