JCPS: Pepper spray released on bus after 2 adults get on board

Rachel Smith, Louisville Courier Journal
·2 min read
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JCPS students wait aboard a bus at the Nichols Bus Compound to transfer to another bus to take them to their schools on Monday, August 21, 2023
JCPS students wait aboard a bus at the Nichols Bus Compound to transfer to another bus to take them to their schools on Monday, August 21, 2023

A student released pepper spray on a Jefferson County Public Schools bus Wednesday morning after two unauthorized adults boarded the vehicle, JCPS spokesperson Carolyn Callahan said.

About 30 students were checked on by EMS soon after the incident, with four Carrithers Middle School students so far complaining of symptoms, she said.

JCPS police are leading the investigation. Callahan said the student will face disciplinary action, per JCPS policies and procedures, and potential charges could be filed against the two adults involved in the altercation.

The bus was picking students up for the day when two adults boarded the bus at one of the stops, with at least one adult running down the aisle, Callahan said. A student then released pepper spray inside the bus.

Inhalation exposures to pepper spray can cause mild and temporary coughing, difficulty breathing, nose and throat irritation, and runny nose, according to the National Capital Poison Center. Students are not allowed to carry pepper spray on JCPS property, Callahan said.

More: Republican lawmakers request state audit of JCPS

While two students initially reported symptoms at the time with emergency medical service providers, two additional students later complained of feeling some effects at school. They were then taken to Norton Children's Hospital to be further checked out, Callahan said.

Beyond health concerns, Callahan said this can also be a traumatic event for all the students involved. School counselors are available for students to talk.

JCPS personnel released a letter describing the incident to parents. Callahan said the school district will keep parents updated on the situation. JCPS police will continue to investigate the incident.

"We just really want to remind community members adults should never be boarding our buses and we expect all members of our school community to follow our school safety guidelines and adults set the tone and expectations for our kids. So we really expect everyone to follow those safety procedures," Callahan said.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: JCPS student releases pepper spray on bus after 2 adults get on at stop