A weapons incident at Manitoulin Secondary School yesterday afternoon saw "several students receive non-life-threatening injuries" and a young offender arrested.
OPP says just before 3 p.m. on September 14, Manitoulin Detachment officers and United Chiefs and Councils of Manitoulin Police Service (UCCM), responded to an "altercation" at Manitoulin Secondary on Bay Street, Billings Township, on Manitoulin Island.
"As a result, several students received non-life-threatening injuries during this incident," says a news release.
The investigation is still open and at this time, one person, 16-years-of-age, from M' Chigeeng First Nation has been arrested and is charged with:
- Assault causing bodily harm
- Assault with a weapon
- Possession of weapon for a dangerous purpose
The youth was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in October in Gore Bay.
The youth cannot be identified under provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
The Manitoulin OPP Crime Unit and the UCCM Crime Unit have undertaken a criminal investigation as a result of this incident.
There are no public safety concerns, add police.
They are asking for information or video in relation to this crime.
Manitoulin Secondary School Tuesday was closed after the incident the Rainbow District School Board reports in a news release.
The Board terms it "a serious incident" and adds, "School administration acted quickly to de-escalate a conflict between students."
“We are working with all of our partners on Manitoulin Island to support our students and staff and ensure their overall well-being,” said Director of Education Bruce Bourget. “When an incident occurs, it affects everyone and we come together as a school community to support each other.”
The Mnidoo Mnising Crisis Response Team is on site today joined by members of the Rainbow District School Board Mental Health Team, school board administrators, and local First Nations representatives. OOO and Anishinaabe Police will also be on-site throughout the day to offer support.
“Our focus is on assisting with the investigation, supporting our staff and students, and working with our community partners to move forward with a focus on safety and continued collaboration,” said Director Bourget.
