MONTREAL – A sixth grade male student died during a schoolyard fight Nov. 12 after being struck in the chest three times.
Authorities said that at 10:15 a. m., the 12-year-old boy, who had a heart condition, and the suspect, an 11-year-old female student, were engaged in a verbal altercation at Horizon-Soleil Elementary, resulting in the female punching the victim in the chest.
Sgt. Philippe Geoffrion said the boy had no visible wounds on his person. He was taken to a local hospital, and shortly after, declared dead.
Students at the school said the victim used an inhaler and never ran in gym. They believe the victim’s death was an accident.
Christiane Rainville, the school’s principal, issued a statement urging parents to allow their children to discuss the tragedy. The statement also mentioned that some children will have problems sleeping and have spells of anger or sadness. A team of psychologists will be available for both students and teachers at the school.
As for the girl, legally, she cannot be held responsible for her actions because she is under the age of twelve; however, the case has been referred to youth protection officials.
