Police investigating after student allegedly brandished knife during altercation at North Penn High School

TOWAMENCIN —Towamencin Township Police have launched an investigation after a student allegedly brandished a knife during an altercation at North Penn High School on Monday afternoon.

North Penn High School Principal Kyle Hassler sent an email to parents on Monday stating two students were engaged in a verbal altercation in a hallway when one of the students allegedly brandished a knife. Hassler said school staffers were able to talk the student into putting the knife away without any injury to anyone involved.

“Staff members were on site throughout the altercation and are to be commended for stepping in to ensure the safety of all students,” said Hassler.

When reached for comment, Towamencin Township Police Chief Tim Troxel confirmed officers were dispatched to the school at 12:46 p.m. on Oct. 2 for what was initially reported as a knife that was found on a student. Troxel declined to comment on what transpired, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation, however he did identify the student as a 16-year-old male and added Towamencin Police have had no prior contact with the student.

Hassler said the student will face disciplinary consequences in addition to any charges filed by police at the conclusion of their investigation.

“Bringing any sort of weapon to school, regardless of intent, is against school policy and the law and will result in disciplinary consequences and criminal charges,” Hassler said. “I ask that parents speak with their children and discuss the seriousness of such actions.”

Hassler’s sentiments were reinforced by North Penn School District Superintendent Dr. Todd Bauer, via comments submitted to North Penn Now.

“No one ever wants to learn of a weapon at school and such situations will not be tolerated. Yesterday’s incident was expertly managed by an alert, engaged and trained staff who’s number one priority is the wellbeing of our students and staff,“ said Bauer. “North Penn High School security personnel and all high school staff are commended for their continued diligence in keeping our schools safe.”

Police said they’ll provide an update on the incident once they have sorted through witness accounts and compared those accounts to the available surveillance footage.

This article appears courtesy of a content-sharing agreement between North Penn Now and The Reporter. To read more stories like this, visit www.NorthPennNow.com.