Chapin High School Addresses Fentanyl Rumors After Backpack Incident

Chapin Sees Alarm Over Bag Incident Amid Fentanyl Rumors

CHAPIN, S.C. – Concerns erupted in Chapin High School this week after a medical incident involving a backpack led to rumors of possible fentanyl exposure among staff members.

On Wednesday morning, around 11:30 a.m., a school resource officer (SRO) discovered an unclaimed backpack left in a classroom. As the SRO searched through the bag, he began to feel chest pains and shortness of breath. Following the SRO’s symptoms, several other staff members also reported feeling dizzy and light-headed.

In response to these alarming symptoms, Chapin High School Principal Ed Davis quickly reached out to emergency services. The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department (LCSD), Lexington Fire Department, and the Hazardous Materials Unit were all notified as a precaution. Subsequently, the Hazardous Materials Unit arrived at the school around 1 p.m. to investigate further.

Fortunately, the Hazardous Materials Unit tested the backpack and found no dangerous or hazardous materials inside. By 1:45 p.m., school officials confirmed that Chapin High School received an all-clear status, allowing the school to resume regular activities. Both the SRO and the staff who experienced symptoms were given on-site medical assistance and were deemed fit to return to their duties.

Principal Davis addressed concerns arising from the incident in an email, noting a surge of community chatter regarding the potential involvement of fentanyl. He clarified that there were no first-hand accounts, police reports, or documentation indicating any actual exposure to fentanyl or any hazardous substances on campus.

It remains unclear how the rumors started. Adding to the day’s events, there was also an unrelated incident involving a student requiring emergency medical attention, but no further details about that situation have been disclosed.

The school community is now focused on clarifying any misconceptions surrounding the incident, as officials work to ease fears and reinforce safety.