Chapin Community on Alert After School Incident

Chapin Community on Alert After School Incident

CHAPIN, S.C. – A medical incident at Chapin High School on Wednesday sparked concerns and rumors among parents and residents of the area. The situation unfolded around 11:30 a.m. when a school resource officer (SRO) began searching a backpack that had been left behind in a classroom.

In an email sent out to parents on Thursday morning, principal Ed Davis detailed the events. He reported that while inspecting the backpack, the SRO started to experience chest pains and trouble breathing. Several other staff members who were nearby also reported feeling dizzy and light-headed after interacting with the bag.

Out of an abundance of caution, school officials quickly contacted local authorities, including the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, the Lexington Fire Department, and the Lexington County Hazardous Materials Unit. Around 1:00 p.m., the Hazardous Materials Unit examined the backpack and determined that it did not contain any harmful substances. By approximately 1:45 p.m., Chapin High School received the all-clear, confirming there was no threat to students or staff.

Both the SRO and the staff members involved were given on-site medical attention and were later cleared to return to their normal duties. Meanwhile, it was reported that emergency medical services also responded to an unrelated incident involving a student who was experiencing a medical emergency, although no further details about that student were shared.

Following the incident, rumors began swirling within the community. Many speculated that the symptoms exhibited by staff could be linked to fentanyl exposure, given the current concerns about the substance in schools nationwide. Principal Davis clarified in his email that there are no reports or evidence to support claims of anyone being exposed to fentanyl or any hazardous materials.

As the school year progresses, Davis reassured the community that their safety remains a priority and emphasized the importance of verifying information before spreading rumors.