Jacksonville, FL - A middle school student was hospitalized Thursday morning after being stabbed by another student on a school bus in the Grand Park neighborhood, according to Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) police.
Incident Reported During Morning Route
Police said the stabbing occurred around 9:20 a.m. on Division Street as Bus 268 was heading to Matthew Gilbert Middle School. Investigators believe an argument between two students turned violent when one pulled a knife, injuring the other.
DCPS confirmed the suspect, also a student, was taken into custody shortly after the incident. The injured student was transported to a nearby hospital. Earlier reports from the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department described the child’s injuries as life-threatening, but police have since clarified they are not considered life-threatening.
District Message to Families
In a message sent to Matthew Gilbert Middle School families, the district assured parents that all students and staff on campus are safe. The message stated that the altercation happened off-campus and that law enforcement is handling the investigation. School officials said they are contacting the families of all students who were on Bus 268 to ensure they are informed.
Reaction from Local Resident
A nearby homeowner who witnessed the emergency response described the situation as deeply upsetting. “It’s heartbreaking,” she said. “You’re going to school for an education and you shouldn’t be afraid to ride the bus. Imagine what the other kids were thinking. It makes kids fearful to go to school. So what solution are we going to come up with to prevent this from happening in the future?”
Ongoing Investigation
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the case remains under active investigation but emphasized there is no ongoing danger to the public. Officials believe the violence was an isolated incident. Authorities are continuing to gather information as they work to determine what led up to the stabbing.
Understanding Legal Options After a School Bus Stabbing
When violence occurs in what should be a safe space for students, families often face confusion and fear about what to do next. To help parents understand their legal rights and possible next steps, we spoke with Florida lawyer Michael Haggard, an experienced advocate for victims of violent incidents involving minors.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When something this serious happens on a school bus, what legal paths are open to the family of the injured student?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: Parents can explore both civil and potential negligence claims. If the evidence shows that school officials or transportation providers failed to take reasonable safety steps, liability could extend beyond the student who committed the act. Every situation depends on the facts, but families should act quickly to preserve information—such as bus surveillance and witness statements—that may affect their case.
Banville: How soon should parents reach out for legal help?
Haggard: Immediately. Early legal guidance ensures any evidence is properly handled and deadlines for claims aren’t missed. Beyond that, a lawyer can help the family understand what compensation may cover—such as medical costs, trauma counseling, and long-term impacts on the child’s education.
Protecting Your Family’s Future
Families dealing with the aftermath of a violent school incident don’t have to face it alone. Legal support can make a difference in holding the right parties accountable and securing help for recovery. If your child has been injured in a school bus stabbing or similar event, contact our team today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options and learn how we can help you move forward.
