Explosive device found in student’s backpack

BIDDEFORD – A Biddeford High School student was suspended Tuesday and could face criminal charges after police found an explosive device in his backpack, school officials said.

The high school and the Regional Center of Technology were evacuated and closed Tuesday morning after the device, made of firecrackers and gunpowder, was found.

Superintendent Kent Webster said the student, whose name was not released, has been suspended and could face expulsion. He also could be charged with terrorizing and possession of explosives.

The explosives were found after a police officer assigned to the school received a tip from other students.