WINGHAM – Shortly after 8 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7 emergency services responded to F.E. Madill Secondary School for a reported individual on fire, according to OPP.
Emergency crews were able to contain and extinguish the fire in the school, OPP stated. The police confirmed on Tuesday a student sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported by emergency services to a local hospital. An individual was later airlifted in stable but critical condition to a trauma centre. OPP said there are no other reported injuries.
Police are requesting video of the incident to not be distributed.
In a release from the Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) communications department, details were provided shortly after the incident.
“Students were safely relocated to Maitland River [Elementary School],” the communication said. “We are assessing the damage that the fire caused in order to determine when students and staff can return to the school. A student and staff member were reportedly injured and are being treated in hospital. Mental health support is being offered to both staff and students.”
Prior to details about the incident being publicized, Midwestern Newspapers staff were on scene and noted roads were closed.
Parents who reached out to Midwestern Newspapers reported they had gone to the school area to pick up their children. Midwestern Newspapers also received correspondence that was claimed to have been sent to parents advising them to stay away from the school while emergency services were in the area. The notice was reportedly sent by AMDSB staff on behalf of F.E. Madill staff.
During the North Huron Council meeting the evening of Apr. 7, Reeve Paul Heffer addressed council, saying”A traumatic event occurred earlier today at F.E. Madill Secondary School. Our thoughts are with all those impacted, as well as their family, friends, and the entire school community. We are grateful to the first responders, school staff and emergency personnel who acted quickly. This is a difficult day for many in our community. On behalf of Council and staff, we extend our support to everyone affected and to the Avon Maitland District School Board as they work to support students and staff in the days ahead.”
Communications Manager for AMDSB Chera Longston confirmed Apr. 7 to Midwestern Newspapers that F.E. Madill will be closed for “the next few days,” for the building to be assessed. Exact length of closure is not confirmed as of yet. Students began online learning the morning of Apr. 8. Longston also added the “Mental health team will continue to provide support for student and staff both in person and online.”
