The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that, despite the ongoing investigation, there is no current threat to community safety.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — UPDATE: The student apprehended in connection with this incident now faces charges of attempted second-degree murder, as detailed in their arrest report. First Coast News is withholding the student’s name due to the uncertainty over whether they will be tried as an adult.
Authorities from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office report that one student has been detained and another has been hospitalized following a knife-related incident on a school bus.
The incident unfolded on a school bus carrying students to Matthew Gilbert Middle School in Northwest Jacksonville, according to both the Sheriff’s Office and Duval County Public Schools.
Officials indicate that the altercation occurred shortly after 9 a.m., resulting in one student sustaining a cut. The circumstances leading up to this confrontation remain unclear at present.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that while the investigation is still active, the situation appears to be isolated, and there is no ongoing danger to the public.
“We are grateful that the injuries do not appear to be life-threatening,” DCPS said.
The following message was sent to parents and guardians:
“Hello Matthew Gilbert families. This is Duval County Public Schools calling. First and foremost, all students and staff at Matthew Gilbert Middle School are safe. We have been made aware of a serious incident that occurred on Bus 268 involving a physical altercation between two students. During the incident, one student was injured with a knife. The injured student was transported for medical care, and the other student is now in the custody of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. The families of the students directly involved have been notified. In addition, school staff are contacting the families of all students who were on the bus so they are aware of what occurred.
This incident did not take place on campus, and there is no threat to the school. Law enforcement continues to investigate, and details remain limited at this time. If there are any updates that impact the broader school community, we will share them promptly.
Thank you for taking the time to listen to this message.”
