On Wenesday, December 13, at approximately 7:38 am, Town of Wallkill Police Officers responded to a reported assault at Monhagen Middle School, 555 County Route 78.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim, 13 years old, student, suffering from multiple stab wounds. The victim was transported to Garnet Health Medical Center by Town of Wallkill Emergency Medical Services and subsequently transported to Westchester Medical Center for medical treatment. The victim is listed in stable condition.
A subsequent investigation by the Town of Wallkill Detectives, City of Middletown and the New York State Police resulted in a juvenile arrest. The defendant, 13 years old, student, was charged and is being prosecuted by the Orange County Attorney’s Office.
The incident resulted in a lockdown in the school on Wednesday. Middletown Schools were scheduled to open on a three-hour delay on Thursday.
“We are left in the aftermath of today's events with a commitment to be in service to the students, staff and community at Monhagen Middle School as they process the incident and begin to take the necessary steps to heal. We understand the gravity of today's events and are left with feelings of sadness and frustration. Our commitment includes ensuring that students and tamilies teel sate and supported at all times as members of our school community. The exterior and interior. including every locker, classroom, office, and bathroom, have been searched. No weapons of any kind were discovered,” said Amy Creeden, Superintendent of Schools in a statement released Wednesday evening.
“We also end the day with a strong resolve for action. Every member of this community puts their trust in us when they send their young person to school. We recognize the gravity of today's situation. All acts of violence in our schools are unacceptable. We will not tolerate this and will use the fullest extent of the Code of Conduct and the law to support our young people.”
The Middletown Board of Education released its own statement:
We echo the sentiments of Superintendent Creeden, today is a sad day for our school district and community. As always, the safety, well-being, and sense of belonging of all members of our school district remain paramount.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the individuals who are impacted by the terrible incident that took place. School violence of any kind is unacceptable and we will not stand idle. We must stand together to support one another.
We acknowledge the extraordinary efforts made by our valued teams. Most especially, the Monhagen Middle School nursing staff, our educators, security staff, clerical, food service staff, and administrators.
Additionally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Town of Wallkill Police Department, the City of Middletown Police Department, the New York State Police, the Orange County Emergency Management Center, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, every emergency responder, and the District and County Attorneys for their support. We commend our families for their patience, understanding, and commitment as we worked through the day.
We will continue to work alongside our administration, families, and community to make sure our schools remain safe for everyone. We support our administration in utilizing the Code of Conduct in tandem with our support services to provide every scholar with the tools they need to succeed.
We understand that this is a concerning time for our entire school community. This incident does not represent the majority of our young people, including the 820 Monhagen students. Our students are incredible members of our district and role models to their peers.
We commend our school community for your continued support in our efforts to provide safe, healthy spaces where our scholars can learn and grow. We have challenges in front of us, but together, all things are possible.
Thank you for your patience and partnership.