High Desert Middle School student releases pepper spray in crowded hallway; staff, students affected but ‘unharmed’

(Update: More details, letter from principal to families)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – A student at High Desert Middle School released pepper spray in a crowded hallway as the lunch period ended Thursday, bringing police and medics to the scene while several directly affected students and staff rinsed their eyes, hands and arms, school officials said.

“Everyone is safe and classes are continuing,” parents were told in a BLConnect message shortly before 2 p.m.

Bend-La Pine Schools Director of Communications Scott Maben said the school is investigating what transpired, and details about the student can't be released that could become part of their protected confidential record.

He provided NewsChannel 21 with a letter sent home to parents later in the day by Principal Jessica Reilly, in which she praised everyone for quickly following directions for safety and advised that "everyone affected is unharmed":

Dear High Desert Middle School Families,

There was an unfortunate incident today when a student released pepper spray in a crowded hallway on the way back from first lunch. We cleared the hallway of students as quickly as possible to minimize the impact of the pepper spray. When we released students for second lunch, we made sure they used an alternate route to get to the cafeteria. This may have caused students to be a few minutes late for lunch, which will not affect their attendance.

Unfortunately, some students and staff were directly affected by this incident, and families of these students were notified as soon as possible. The school also called EMTs and our school nurse to evaluate students directly affected. The EMTs and Nurse Collins were able to give some students a saline solution to rinse their eyes and advised that any student involved should rinse their hands and arms as soon as possible. They also advised affected students to shower thoroughly and change their clothes at the first opportunity.

Noxious or irritating gasses, such as pepper spray, are not permitted within our school, and any student who brings pepper spray to school is subject to school disciplinary action.  

While disappointed that this happened, I am pleased to share that our students responded immediately and appropriately to our quick directions to keep everyone safe. Many of our students were concerned and asking about staff affected by this incident. We let all students know that everyone affected is unharmed. We have so many caring and responsible students at High Desert Middle School, and it’s my honor to be a part of this community. Thank you for your support today and every day.

Jessica Reilly, Principal