Police: Students threatening self-harm prompt responses to Santa Fe High
Feb. 16—Santa Fe police and emergency medical personnel responded to two incidents Friday at Santa Fe High School that police said involved teen boys threatening self-harm.
Both students were hospitalized, and the district notified parents of what it described as separate medical crises.
Police Capt. Bryan Martinez said one student had tied a rope around his neck and to a railing on the second story of the school and threatened to jump.
Around the same time, he said, another student who was intoxicated on mouthwash in a bathroom threatened self-harm.
Teachers intervened in both incidents, which appeared to be unrelated, Martinez said.
The boys, ages 15 and 17, were taken to Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center and placed on a 24-hour medical hold, he added.
Martinez said he was uncertain if the students suffered any physical injuries or what their conditions were after the incidents.
Santa Fe Public Schools Superintendent Hilario "Larry" Chavez did not respond to messages seeking comment on the incidents, and spokesman Cody Dynarski declined to provide details.
Dynarski issued a statement Friday afternoon informing parents of "two separate crisis events that required medical attention."
"Staff responded quickly to ensure that the students received the necessary assistance and care," the statement said. "Local emergency services were called to the scene promptly, and both students are receiving the necessary medical treatment."
The statement continued, "We understand the concern and anxiety that news like this can cause and want to assure you that the safety and well-being of our students and staff are our foremost priorities. The school has taken all appropriate measures to maintain a safe and secure environment."
The message said counseling services would be available to students Tuesday and encouraged parents and guardians of students who needed further support to reach out to Gerard's House or The Sky Center, two organizations that provide youth suicide prevention and intervention services.
