Manatee County Man Arrested After Attempting to Bring Gun into High School Football Game

BRADENTON, Fla. — A Manatee County man is now in custody after an attempt to bring a firearm into a local high school football game was thwarted by security measures. The incident occurred on the evening of September 30 at Manatee High School, where Rasheim Alexander Reckley attempted to enter the stadium.

As Reckley approached the entrance, a metal detector sounded, prompting school security personnel to search his belongings. During the search, authorities discovered a firearm magazine inside his satchel. Upon further investigation, the weapon was also located within his bag.

Reckley claimed to have a concealed carry weapons permit (CCW) and told officers he was unaware that carrying a weapon onto school property was illegal. Despite this, state law prohibits firearms on school grounds, even for individuals with a valid permit.

He was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Manatee County jail, where he now faces charges related to the incident. Security protocols at local school events have been praised for preventing any potential danger during the event, and the investigation remains ongoing.