GRANBURY, Texas — Granbury ISD and Granbury police say they’re investigating after eight Granbury Middle School students were hospitalized after eating candy distributed by a student Tuesday that was initially believed to contain a narcotic.
They say the students are OK.
An initial test of the candy tested negative for THC, but additional testing will follow as the investigation into the incident continues, the district and police say.
“We are taking every step necessary to ensure the safety of our students and prevent any future occurrences. We understand the seriousness of this matter and are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for your children,” the statement, signed by Granbury Middle School principal Dr. Andy Smith, read.
“This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of educating our children about the potential dangers of unknown consumptions. As parents or guardians, it is crucial that we have open and honest conversations with our children about making responsible choices and being cautious when it comes to accepting or consuming anything unfamiliar. We kindly request that you take the time to talk to your child about these risks, even if they may seem harmless at first," the statement continued.
Two of the eighth grade students who ate the candy shared their experience after being taken to the emergency room. Hannah and Victoria, both 13, are home now.
"It tasted like toothpaste and it was really disgusting," said Hannah.
She told WFAA during an exclusive interview that their classmate told them the candy was a gift from her grandmother.
"It was gross, and it looked like a Twizzlers," said Victoria.
After eating the candy, Victoria and Hannah went to separate classes. But they, along with six other students, started feeling sick, especially Victoria. That's when she decided to ask her teacher if she could go see the school nurse.
"I did pass out, and I am not sure how many kids passed out," said Victoria.
Hannah said, "I felt really dizzy. My heart was going really fast. I felt like I was really sick."
As the school called parents, paramedics transported four students to the hospital. Parents took the other four to get checked out at the hospital.
When Hannah's mother got the phone call about what happened at her daughter's school, she not only learned her daughter was sick but also unresponsive. That scared her the most.
"It was a very scary moment. I thought I was going to lose my child," Kimberly told WFAA. "I want to get to the bottom of this for other kids out there and other parents."
Although Kimberly shared preliminary guesses from ER doctors, just like police, she and the parents of all of the students are waiting to learn exactly what made their children sick.
Kimberly said, "the doctor was very sure it was fentanyl."
Following the incident, the school district and police reiterated “the importance of reporting any suspicious or concerning behavior to a trusted adult, whether it be a teacher, a school staff member, or yourself.”
“Rest assured, we are committed to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for your child. We will continue to work closely with the authorities, review our existing protocols, and implement any necessary additional measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future,” the district's statement said.
The district asks those with questions or concerns to reach out to contact school administration.
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