“While this incident is extremely troubling, it is isolated and not reflective of the broader environment of Ward 4 schools”

From Council Member Brandon Todd:

“At approximately 10:30 this morning [Tuesday], Metropolitan Police Dept. (MPD) officers responded to reports of a stabbing inside the restroom of E.L. Haynes Public Charter School, located on the 4500 block of Kansas Avenue, NW. MPD Chief Peter Newsham was on-scene this morning and provided the following information:

The 15-year old victim suffered a serious stab wound and has been transported to a local hospital. The victim’s wounds are non-life threatening and he is in stable condition. A 17-year old suspect, another E.L. Haynes student, is in custody. The weapon – a knife – has been recovered.

No other students, faculty, or staff were physically injured. The school has been secured and has exited their initial lockdown. At no time was the greater community at risk.

My office was at the school earlier today as police responded. I have been in contact with the E.L. Haynes CEO, Hilary Darilek, and have offered my complete support for the school community. I will work closely with the E.L. Haynes, MPD, the Dept. of Behavioral Health, and other agencies of our government to coordinate support for students, families, and staff members.

While this incident is extremely troubling, it is isolated and not reflective of the broader environment of Ward 4 schools, both traditional public and public charter. I send my sincere thoughts and prayers for a swift recovery to the victim, his family, and the entire E.L. Haynes community. I remain committed to working collaboratively to find ways to make our schools safer for everyone.”