Chapin High School Staff Treated for Lightheadedness Amid Fentanyl Rumors
CHAPIN, S.C. – A medical incident at Chapin High School on Wednesday morning raised concerns among the community, sparking rumors about potential fentanyl exposure. The situation began around 11:30 a.m. when a school resource officer (SRO) started searching a backpack that had been left in a classroom.
In an email sent to parents and community members on Thursday morning, Principal Ed Davis detailed the incident. He noted that while the SRO was examining the bag, he experienced symptoms including chest pains and shortness of breath. Following this, several other staff members reported feeling dizzy and light-headed after coming in contact with the backpack.
The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department (LCSD) was quickly notified, along with the Lexington Fire Department and the Lexington County Hazardous Materials Unit. To ensure safety, the Hazardous Materials Unit arrived to examine the backpack at about 1 p.m. They confirmed that there were no hazardous materials inside the bag, and Chapin High School was cleared around 1:45 p.m.
Principal Davis reassured everyone that the SRO and the faculty members involved in the search received on-site medical attention. All were deemed healthy and returned to their duties following the incident.
As chatter spread through the community, rumors began circulating that the episode was connected to fentanyl exposure. However, Principal Davis emphasized that there were no official reports or evidence supporting the claim that anyone had been exposed to fentanyl or any other dangerous substances. The school is uncertain about how these rumors started.
In a separate matter, there was also a report of a student experiencing a medical emergency that required EMS assistance, although details about that situation have not been disclosed.
As the community collaborates to stay informed, officials urge everyone to remain calm and emphasize verified facts over speculation.
