PSU student arrested for allegedly discharging firearm

A Pittsburg State University student, Tyler Baker, 19, of Lee's Summit, Mo., was arrested for allegedly discharging a shotgun from a porch at Nation Hall. The college's emergency alert system was not activated because the determination that a weapon had been discharged and the apprehension of the suspect occurred almost simultaneously. "It took just minutes from the time when the 911 call was received until the officers had the suspect identified and in custody," Mike McCracken, director of PSU police, said. "While there is no indication at this time that the suspect had any intention to harm anyone, any time there is a weapon involved it is important that we respond quickly."

A 911 call prompted an investigation that quickly led to a second-floor room at the residence hall. No weapons were found there, but the suspect consented to a search of his vehicle, where two shotguns were found.

Baker was transported to the Crawford County Jail in Girard where he was booked on charges of possession of a weapon on state property, unlawful discharge of a weapon, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and minor in possession of alcohol. Baker was suspended from the university and removed from the residence hall until he requests a formal hearing at the University, a press release said.