Update: RCMP investigating incident at Thurber on day one of classes

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Red Deer Emergency Services (RDES) left the scene after about an hour, and confirmed to rdnewsNOW that there were no injuries. However, there were reports that some people were coughing, which RDES acknowledges would be normal if anyone inhaled any of the spray, as it is an irritant. No one had to be treated or was sent to hospital, they reiterated.

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Furthermore, on Tuesday, the school division shared this updated statement:

“Following further investigation, it has been confirmed that bear spray was discharged in a school bathroom. When Red Deer Emergency Services first arrived on scene, a can of pet deterrent was found in a garbage can and was initially believed to be the source of the spray. This was the information we had at the time of communicating with families.

“The RCMP are now investigating the incident. From a school perspective, appropriate consequences are being put in place for those involved.

“Lindsay Thurber has zero tolerance for this type of behaviour. Students are prohibited from bringing items such as bear spray or other weapons and dangerous items onto school property. When students bring prohibited items to school or engage in behaviour that puts the safety of others at risk, appropriate consequences will follow.

“In addition, this morning, our Administration addressed all Grade 10-12 students in their assemblies regarding the rules and laws surrounding prohibited items being brought into schools, including but not limited to, anything considered to be a weapon, such as knives and sharp objects that can be used harmfully, and all forms of pepper/mace/bear spray and pet deterrent. An assembly was previously held for Grade 9 students; however, this information will also be shared with them.”

Red Deer Public noted Monday that students were allowed back in shortly after the incident, grade by grade, to retrieve their belongings and go home. All tryouts and practices were cancelled, and school resumed Tuesday.

RCMP said in a release Tuesday that it is indeed investigating, calling the substance oleoresin capsicum, adding that it was sprayed into one of the vents in a bathroom.