Parent charged after starting fight, sprays pepper spray at Chicago Bulls College Prep
CHICAGO (CBS) -- A parent was arrested and charged after spraying a "mace type spray" in a classroom at a Near West Side High school Friday afternoon, sending three people to the hospital.
Anita Wilkens, 36, of Chicago, is charged with two misdemeanor counts of criminal trespass and reckless conduct causing bodily harm.
Police said, around 12:10 p.m., a woman entered the school, at 2040 W. Adams St., and entered a classroom where she "discharged a chemical spray."
A Chicago Bulls College Prep spokesperson said the woman was a parent at the school. After a meeting with staff members, the parent entered a classroom without permission, the school said.
The woman instigated a fight with a small group of students, and sprayed pepper spray at both students and staff, the school said.
The school said it contacted police, and initiated a soft lockdown to ensure everyone's safety.
The parent was escorted out of the building, and was then arrested by Chicago Police, the school said.
Two adult staff members were taken to Stroger Hospital of Cook County in good condition. Four other people refused treatment at the scene, but the school said a student was later taken to the hospital by their family.
One of the staffers, a man, was seen distressed and covering his eye and was eventually taken away in an ambulance.
Cameras rolling as the woman was handcuffed and taken away by police. Students were dismissed at the normal time, the school said.
We saw dozens of first responders surrounding the school Friday afternoon as students were released for the day. The scene was a little chaotic.
"We are grateful for the swift action of our staff members to de-escalate the situation, and their continued commitment to provide a safe learning environment," the school spokesperson said in a statement.
The school is part of the Noble Schools charter school network. School officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
