Chapin Community Concerned After Medical Incident at Local High School
Chapin, S.C. – A recent medical incident at Chapin High School raised alarms and sparked rumors within the community. On Wednesday morning, school officials reported that a school resource officer (SRO) felt unwell while inspecting a backpack left in a classroom.
According to an email from Chapin High School Principal Ed Davis, the SRO began a search around 11:30 a.m. and soon experienced symptoms like chest pains and shortness of breath. Other staff members present during the search also reported feeling dizzy and lightheaded.
In response to these health concerns, school officials contacted local authorities, including the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, Lexington Fire Department, and the Lexington County Hazardous Materials Unit. The Hazardous Materials Unit arrived later that day to examine the bag, conducting tests to ensure safety. By 1:45 p.m., the all-clear status was given, confirming that no hazardous materials were found inside the backpack.
All staff members who experienced symptoms received on-site medical attention and were reported as fit to return to their duties shortly after.
Principal Davis also noted that there had been a separate incident involving a student who required EMS assistance due to a medical emergency, but details regarding that situation remain undisclosed.
Following the day’s events, community members began discussing the possibility that the symptoms were linked to fentanyl exposure on school grounds. However, Principal Davis clarified that there were no direct reports or evidence to support these claims. “There are no first-hand accounts, police reports, or incident reports indicating that anyone was exposed to fentanyl or any other toxic substances,” Davis stated.
Despite the school’s efforts to investigate the situation, the origin of the fentanyl rumors is still unclear. School officials continue to emphasize safety and communication amidst the ongoing concerns within the Chapin community.
