Portland Student Expected to Survive Toxic Gas Inhalation

A 15-year-old Benson Polytechnic High School student is expected to survive after suffering a severe medical emergency Tuesday morning when he mixed household chemicals brought from home in the school cafeteria and inhaled the resulting toxic gases. Officials corrected initial reports that the student had ingested the mixture, saying he did not drink it. School staff began CPR and used an automated external defibrillator before first responders arrived, while Portland Fire & Rescue’s hazardous-materials team neutralized the spill and confirmed the building was safe. More than 100 students and staff members were evaluated, but no one else required hospitalization; classes were canceled for two days. Police, fire officials and the school district are investigating the incident, including how the chemicals were obtained and whether any criminal conduct was involved.