St. Paul high school student attacked three staffers, charges allege

A student at St. Paul's Johnson High School was charged in an alleged attack on three staff members last month during which he punched one, threw one to the ground and grabbed another's neck.

The 16-year-old boy, who is not being named because he was charged in juvenile court, allegedly attacked the staff members about 10 a.m. on Sept. 11. He is charged in Ramsey County District Court with one count each of third-, fourth- and fifth-degree assault.

St. Paul police said the teen was suffering a "mental health crisis" at the time.

"An incident took place on the day in question involving a student in crisis," said a statement from St. Paul Public Schools. "As staff attended to the student, there was physical contact causing injuries to staff members.

"Sadly, this was an unfortunate situation for both the student and the staff. Maintaining a safe learning environment for students and staff is always a top priority for St. Paul Public Schools."

The criminal complaint said that the student was "out of control," but did not say what preceded the alleged attacks. A school resource officer intervened, at which time the student allegedly asked to be shot.

Sgt. Mike Ernster, a police spokesman, said St. Paul fire medics transported the student to a hospital. The staff members were also treated at a medical facility, he said.

Chao Xiong