9 students taken to hospital after mace sprayed inside Chicago elementary school: police

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Mace sprayed at Chicago elementary school, several hospitalized

Several people were hospitalized after mace was sprayed inside a South Side elementary school Tuesday.

Several students were taken to the hospital after a person sprayed mace inside a South Side elementary school Tuesday, authorities said.

What we know:

The incident happened at 2:55 p.m. Tuesday inside Paul Revere Elementary School, located at 1010 E. 72nd Street in the Grand Crossing neighborhood. 

Chicago police said a fight broke out between a woman and a man inside the school. During the altercation, the woman sprayed mace at the man.

Five girls, ages 13 and 14, and four boys, ages 12 to 14, were also exposed to the chemical irritant, police said.

All nine students were transported to Comer Children’s Hospital and were initially listed in good condition, authorities said.

What they're saying:

Principal Marla Renee Broy sent a statement to school families on the incident, shared below: 

"Dear Revere Parents and Families,

"The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority, and I am writing to inform you of an incident that occurred at school earlier today. This afternoon, there was a physical altercation inside our school building involving members of our school community. During the altercation, one of the individuals discharged pepper spray, impacting other community members. Staff immediately de-escalated the situation and notified the CPS Office of Safety and Security and the Chicago Police Department (CPD) to provide support. Out of an abundance of caution, notifications were made to ensure the impacted individuals received additional support, and their families have also been notified. All students and staff are safe.

"While I cannot provide further details for privacy reasons, please know we are handling this matter in accordance with CPS policies to ensure the safety of our community. If your child witnessed this altercation and has voiced any concerns or fears about this incident, please let us know, and we will provide them with extra support. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me directly. 

"Sincerely, Principal Broy"

What's next:

No arrests have been made, police said.

The Source: The information in this story came from the Chicago Fire Department.

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