A group of brave seventh-graders sprang into action after a 12-year-old student allegedly stabbed a teacher with a knife inside a Virginia middle school, authorities said.
The frightening attack unfolded at Jonesville Middle School in western Virginia, where Lee County Sheriff Gary Parsons said several students rushed in and tackled the alleged attacker before the situation could become even worse.
“Several students came in and tackled the kid, got him down and controlled him,” Parsons told ABC News on Thursday.
The teacher suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening but required stitches, according to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
Parsons credited the students with potentially preventing a tragedy.
“They’re certainly to be commended and probably saved lives, certainly saved the teacher’s life,” he said.
Authorities said all other students and staff members at the school were safe following the attack.
Investigators said the 12-year-old suspect told authorities he used a cutlery knife that he had taken from the school’s kitchen.
The boy was taken into custody and now faces charges of aggravated malicious wounding and assault and battery, according to Parsons.
The shocking incident has put the spotlight on the quick-thinking students who reportedly confronted an armed classmate rather than running from the danger.
The school district had not immediately responded to ABC News’ request for comment.
