Killian Stabbing Victim Speaks Out For The First Time
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – A Killian High football player stabbed while in school spoke out for the first time about the incident.
Fifteen year old DeAndre Johnson has never felt this much pain in his young life as he continues to recover from a stab wound to the chest.
"I'm in so much pain. My chest, every breath hurts and it's just constant," said Johnson from his hospital bed at Nicklaus Children's Hospital.
"He said I was very close to being dead and I'm just thankful that he was able to save my life," said Johnson.
DeAndre was seen in a picture on the ground as a classmate rushed to his side to help him.
"I'm just thankful to God for giving me a second chance at life. I'm thankful for Arelis, the student who came to my rescue and the community for their prayers," said Johnson.
According to the arrest report, in addition to the knife used to stab DeAndre, the girl had "two additional kitchen knives and a grilling fork" in her backpack.
Miami-Dade Schools Police Chief Ian Moffett addressed school security Thursday saying the district uses a multi-layered system to ensure students safety but a lawyer representing DeAndre's family said that system failed.
"We will make a determination as to what legal action will be filed within the next few months," said Judd Rosen, the family's attorney.
Although DeAndre said he has a lot to be thankful for, he worries about whether he'll fully recover and if he'll be able to play football again.
"If I will be able to play at a higher level as I was playing. Would it hurt if I come back and the risk I put myself in if I do come back," said Johnson.