A high school student in Tacoma, Washington, faces multiple counts of first-degree assault after a mass stabbing at Foss High School left six people injured on Thursday. Four students and a security guard were wounded, and the suspect also sustained minor injuries.
Incident Details
Authorities responded to the school around lunchtime following reports of a fight between students. The altercation reportedly stemmed from a dispute over a vape battery, according to a parent who spoke to KIRO news radio. The parent expressed disbelief that such a trivial item could lead to potential loss of life.
Four students were taken to the hospital in critical condition, while the security guard and suspect were treated for minor injuries. By Friday, all victims were reported in stable condition.
School Response
The school was placed on lockdown and later evacuated. Classes and after-school activities were canceled until Monday, with counselors and additional staff scheduled to be on campus to support students and staff.
The suspect, a juvenile, was booked into Pierce County jail on five counts of first-degree assault. It remains unclear if the suspect is still in custody, and details about the weapon used have not been released.
Community Reaction
Students described the scene as chaotic, with blood visible throughout the area. Cellphone video of the fight circulated among classmates, adding to the distress.
Tacoma Public Schools spokesperson praised the quick and calm actions of staff and first responders. The incident echoes a fatal shooting at the same school in 2007, where a 17-year-old student killed a classmate and received a 23-year prison sentence.
Foss High School, with 557 students, is located about 40 miles south of Seattle.
