19-year-old brought semi-automatic weapon to high school graduation rehearsal on NC State campus

A 19-year-old was arrested and charged Thursday after he allegedly brought a rifle to a high school graduation rehearsal at North Carolina State University.

Southeast Raleigh High School’s graduation rehearsal was held between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. at Reynolds Coliseum.

Deon McCullers, 19, of Raleigh, was charged bringing a gun onto educational property – a felony – and going armed to the terror of the people.

“Last seen in the area of a parking lot. She has a witness with her, I’m getting information that way. Reynolds is currently locked down.”

That is police radio traffic when McCullers was arrested for bringing a riffle to graduation rehearsal.

2013 Southeast Raleigh High School Grad Alice Adebari, says safety at a graduation was never a concern for her, it’s a a joyous time.

“Around that time, we didn’t have much violence, especially coming to celebrations. And places were student ship, congratulate each other instead of create violence,” Adebari said.

Adebari believes the schools should stress the importance of safety, and let students know there is zero tolerance for violence or bringing weapons to school functions.

“I know in the morning they do have morning TV. They are able to see the announcements. Maybe those things should be addressed in the morning,” Adebari said.
According to the warrant for his arrest, McCullers had an argument with another person prior to the graduation rehearsal and showed up there with a semi-automatic rifle known as a “Draco.” Police said he walked around the parking lot with the rifle on display, causing “mass panic to a large crowd.”

Southeast Raleigh Principal George E. Harden, Jr., sent a letter to families after the arrest.

“We have received a report that a student displayed what appeared to be a firearm in the parking lot. Law enforcement and WCPSS Security were immediately contacted and are investigating the incident,” Harden wrote. “While no one was harmed, we wanted to let you know what occurred in case you or your student saw or heard about this incident.”

McCullers was arrested by N.C. State University Police. They said McCullers, who was jailed without bond, is not affiliated with N.C. State.

“We are thankful for the assistance of the Raleigh Police Department,” University Police said.

A parent from Southeast Raleigh High School told WRAL News the graduation ceremony held Thursday night went smoothly following the disruption.