A 12 year-old male is facing charges in connection with an incident yesterday on a school playground, in which it’s alleged the male caused a chemical explosion to occur. A 12 year-old girl sustained injuries as a result of this incident.
Yesterday afternoon, March 28, 2018, the principal of an elementary school in the 6300 block of 7th Avenue North, contacted the School Resource Officer to report an incident involving an explosive chemical reaction that injured a student. The preliminary investigation indicates an improvised explosive device was created by mixing ingredients in a closed container. It’s alleged this was carried out by a 12 year-old male student at the school. The resulting explosion injured a 12 year-old female student, who was nearby. The victim was taken to hospital with injuries consistent with a chemical burn. Police carried out a search of the suspect student’s home as part of the investigation and are also engaged in a protocol to assess any potential threat posed by the suspect. The student has been charged in connection with this incident. Police, school officials and other authorities are also engaged in planning to provide follow-up and other resources as needed for all involved. There is no evidence that this act was directed at any particular individual.
The 12 year-old male cannot be named in accordance with the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act. He is facing a charge of Using Explosives (throwing a corrosive substance) [81(b)(iii) CC]; Assault with a Weapon [267(a) CC] and Mischief under $5,000 [430(4) CC]. The youth made his first court appearance on these charges in Youth Court at 9:30 a.m. today, March 29, 2018.