Authorities are investigating after multiple students fell ill from eating candy that was brought to Perry High School in Stark County.
According to police, around 20 students were involved in the incident. Five of those students were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Some of the others were later taken to the hospital by their parents.
The candy was sent to the Stark County Crime Lab for analysis. According to police, the candy appeared to be Sour Patch Kids.
Assistant superintendent Nathan Stutz released the following statement:
The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority. As many of you are aware, some of our students may have been affected by candy that was brought to school. We are working closely with authorities to fully investigate the situation. Upon the findings of the investigation, appropriate disciplinary and legal action will be taken - if deemed necessary. I would like to thank all safety services for their quick response and support. Again, the well-being of our students is our top priority, and we take all situations that may impact their safety very seriously.
On Thursday the school district gave an update saying a preliminary investigation doesn't indicate the candy was laced.
At this time, preliminary indications do not suggest that the candy was tampered with. When the official results are available, we will provide an update. Again, we do not believe there is any additional cause for concern. I would like to thank area safety services for their quick response and support. I would also like to thank our staff members for always putting our students first.
Again, the well-being of our students is our top priority and we take all situations that may impact their safety and health very seriously.
Perry High School is located in Massillon.
