Authorities have identified the student who died after being stabbed outside of Lanphier High School Wednesday.
The Sangamon County Coroner said 18 year old Pierre Scott Jr. died at a local hospital. Police earlier said he was stabbed in the chest. A 16 year male was recovering.
Three people were reportedly involved. Police Chief Kenny Winslow said the suspect has been identified and he expected the person would be brought into custody soon. He added the suspect, a juvenile, is not considered a threat to others.
District 186 Superintendent Jennifer Gill said Thursday only about half the student body at Lanphier High was in attendance. Excused absences will be granted for those who are too upset to attend school this week.
Gill said students Thursday were scanned and lockers searched. She added the district is considering permanent metal detectors in
all high schools and possibly middle schools.
Responding to reports that the school's resource officer was off Wednesday, Gill said the officer had an approved medical leave. But she added a retired Springfield Police officer was on site and took over those duties.
She said police and medical personnel arrived quickly after being notified of the incident. It remains unclear if the weapon was inside the building during the day or accessed after school recessed. Students were leaving the building when the incident occurred.
The district is offering support services, including social workers and psychologists, to those students who need them.
