A 16-year-old student at Fort Lee High School has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a 15-year-old classmate multiple times in a bathroom altercation that began with a prank.
At a Glance
- The 15-year-old victim suffered multiple stab wounds to the neck, back, arm, and chest but is expected to survive
- The alleged attacker was arrested at the scene and is being held at Bergen County Juvenile Detention Center
- The incident occurred around 11 a.m. in a school bathroom, reportedly escalating from a prank
- The school was placed on lockdown until 2 p.m., with students dismissed early under heavy police presence
- Parents have raised concerns about the lack of metal detectors in the school following the incident
Bathroom Altercation Turns Violent
The violent incident unfolded around 11 a.m. on Tuesday at Fort Lee High School in New Jersey when what began as a prank between two students escalated to a brutal knife attack. According to witness accounts, the altercation started after one student pulled down the other’s pants. The situation quickly deteriorated, resulting in the 16-year-old suspect allegedly stabbing his 15-year-old classmate multiple times in vital areas including the neck, back, arm, and chest.
First responders and school security discovered the victim bleeding outside the restroom. The injured student was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition. Officials report that despite the severity of his injuries, the victim is expected to survive and is currently in critical but stable condition. Law enforcement arrested the alleged attacker at the scene, charging him with first-degree attempted murder, second-degree aggravated assault, and weapons possession charges.
School Safety Response
The stabbing triggered an immediate lockdown of Fort Lee High School that remained in effect until approximately 2 p.m. Local authorities closed surrounding roads to control access to the facility, and family members were specifically advised not to go to the school building during the emergency. Students were dismissed early with a significant police presence ensuring their safety as they exited the building.
“It’s mind-boggling to me and every school should have a metal detector, this is a perfect example of kids having animosity and wanting revenge and stuff like this can happen,” parent Doris Lugo told ABC7NY
In response to the incident, the Fort Lee Police Department has increased its presence at the school as a precautionary measure. School counselors have been made available to provide support for students and staff processing the traumatic event. The violence has also disrupted academic plans, including SAT exams that were scheduled for the day following the incident.
Witness Accounts and Investigation Details
Details emerging from witness statements suggest the attack may have involved multiple individuals. According to reports, another student may have assisted in holding down the victim during the stabbing. One student witness described the immediate aftermath of the violence, revealing the desperate situation of the injured student.
“He said they stabbed me, please help me, help me,” Lugo recounted to ABC7NY
The 16-year-old suspect was taken into custody at the Bergen County Juvenile Detention Center where he awaits a closed hearing due to his juvenile status. Law enforcement has provided limited information about the suspect, following protocols for cases involving minors. Prosecutors have confirmed the charges, including attempted murder, which reflects the gravity of the attack.
Community Impact and School Security Concerns
The stabbing has ignited serious discussions about school security measures within the Fort Lee community. Parents have expressed significant concern over the lack of metal detectors that might have prevented the weapon from entering the school premises. The incident has raised questions about current security protocols and whether additional preventative measures should be implemented to protect students.
“A 16-year-old boy was arrested Tuesday and slapped with an attempted murder charge for allegedly stabbing his classmate during a gruesome attack inside a New Jersey high school, prosecutors said,” reported the New York Post
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack and whether any preventative intervention might have been possible. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for violence within school settings and has prompted renewed attention to the importance of conflict resolution programs and security infrastructure in educational institutions.
