A 17-year-old is facing attempted murder charges after allegedly attempting to stab another student at a northeast high school, which led to a lockdown Thursday.
Officers say they arrived at Lester B. Pearson High School on 52 Street NE near Village Square Leisure Centre just after 12 p.m.
A knife-wielding student was reportedly smashing property, according to police, threatening students and staff before attempting to stab another student.
This led to a lockdown at the northeast high school, with multiple calls coming in to report the 17-year-old’s movements.
Within minutes of responding to the scene, police found the suspect and arrested him. The lockdown remained in place as officers assessed each room and the school before it was released.
The incident led to one student receiving minor injuries, though they didn’t need to go to hospital.
There were no other victims or threats to the school, and the attack is believed to be premeditated, officers say.
Meanwhile, the 17-year-old — a former Lester B. Pearson student — is facing charges of attempted murder, uttering threats, and mischief to property under $5,000.
Police say the youth can’t be named under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
“Our officers responded within minutes and acted decisively to ensure the safety of every student and staff member. Thanks to their quick actions, the suspect was taken into custody without further harm,” said Calgary Police Service Staff Sgt. Mike Sushelnitsky in a news release. “Incidents like this highlight just how important lockdown drills are. The preparedness of students and staff may well have saved lives.”
Officers say they are working closely with the Calgary Board of Education to offer support and resources to students and staff at Lester B. Pearson.
Anyone with information about this incident can call Calgary police at 403-266-1234 or leave a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
In addition to the support offered within the school, the police’s Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST) is a free service offered to victims and witnesses of crime or tragedy. If you or someone you know needs support, officers say to call VAST at 403-428-8398.
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