A student is currently in police custody after allegedly stabbing two teacher aides at Castor Gardens Middle School in Philadelphia on Tuesday afternoon.
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The attack reportedly occurred around noon during a math class, where authorities said the 11-year-old sixth grader pulled out a kitchen knife. Although school staff intervened and subdued the student before police arrived, they both sustained injuries, according to CBS News. Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanor of the Philadelphia Department said in a statement that the injuries were non-life-threatening.
A 63-year-old aide was transported to a local hospital after she was struck on her left side, and a 31-year-old aide was stabbed in the right arm but refused medical treatment. The school has metal detectors, but officials are investigating how the knife bypassed security. The Office of School Safety is reviewing whether the metal detectors were operational during the incident.
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The school was places on a 90-minute lockdown as parents arrived at the scene to pick up their children. However, many were frustrated as they had to wait hours to reunite with them.
Some students said they called their parents during the lockdown and parents also expressed outrage at the lack of safety protocols. The case was turned over to the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, but it is unclear if charges will be filed due to the child’s developmental disability.
Monique Braxton, a school district spokesperson, urged compassion. “There are developmental issues with the student. We need to give him grace. We’re unsure what triggered him today.”
