A 15-year-old boy is in hospital after a violent sword attack at Neelin High School in Brandon Tuesday afternoon.
Brandon police say they were called around 1:15 p.m. by a student reporting a male youth inside the school armed with a sword.
"Yesterday at 1:15 p.m., the Neelin High School resource officer received a phone call from a student,” said Inspector Jason Dupuis. “The student stated a male was going crazy and holding a sword. [The youth] was in possession of the sword inside the school. Responding officers assessed the situation, and a conducted energy device was deployed.”
A 16-year-old suspect was arrested at 1:22 p.m.
Police say the 15-year-old victim suffered significant stab wounds to the chest, arms and thighs. He was taken to Brandon Regional Health Centre in serious condition. His condition has since improved, according to an evening update from police.
The school was placed under lockdown as a precaution, but it has since been lifted. There is no ongoing threat to students, staff or the public. Students were dismissed early following the incident, and school administration is providing updates to families.
“Our hearts go to the victim and his family, the students and staff at Neelin High School,” Dupuis said during a 5:30 p.m. media briefing.
Police say they continue to work with school officials and community partners to support the well-being of all students and staff. Mental health resources are available for those affected.
Brandon Police Chief Tyler Bates noted the wider impact of such a violent event.
“The Brandon Police Service wants to express their concern, the well-being and well-wishes for the injured youth, his family, for students and staff at Neelin High School, and for responding Brandon police officers,” he said. “Manic incidents such as this reverberate and affect many individuals both directly and indirectly.”
The incident remains under investigation.
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