William Russell

CLAY TWP - An alert teacher and school police may have thwarted the nefarious plans of a reportedly drunken homeless man who showed up at Moniteau Junior/Senior High School Friday with multiple weapons.

William L. Russell, 36, no known address, faces multiple charges and remains housed in the Butler County Prison on $100,000 cash bond.

State Trooper Casey Fuller reported Saturday morning that a teacher at the northern Butler County high school noticed a maroon Honda Odyssey van parked in the school's south parking lot with a male in the driver's seat at about 8:40 a.m. Friday.

The teacher alerted school police officers who observed the same van nearly two hours later parked in a cemetery adjacent to school property and contacted state police.

Upon investigating, Fuller reported finding multiple weapons in the van with Russell, including two loaded shotguns.

Russell was arrested and charged with possessing weapons on school property, driving under the influence of alcohol, disorderly conduct, and careless driving.

Authorities did not release details regarding Russell's intentions or reasons for having weapons in his vehicle on school property. The case remains under investigation.

Pick up Monday's Butler Eagle for the full report.