A distressing event unfolded at a Cabell County elementary school, resulting in the arraignment of a local man on Friday. Joshua Collins, a 43-year-old resident of Huntington, stood before a judge, accused of a violent assault on South Point Elementary School Principal, Bill Christian.
The incident took place on Thursday. Collins, reportedly upset over a child custody dispute, allegedly attacked Christian in a hallway near the school’s main office. Authorities report that Collins stabbed the principal in the neck and upper torso following a brief exchange of words.
Christian sought refuge in the office, locking the door behind him in an attempt to escape. However, Collins shattered the glass window to continue his pursuit, escalating the situation further. The altercation eventually moved into the school cafeteria, where a South Point police officer intervened and arrested Collins.
Collins sustained injuries to his arms during the violent encounter and received treatment at a Huntington hospital. Upon his release from the hospital, he was taken into custody at the Western Regional Jail on Thursday evening.
The incident sparked high tensions, leading the school to initiate a lockdown to ensure the safety of the students. Fortunately, no students were injured during the incident. The school remained closed on Friday as the community dealt with the aftermath.
Principal Christian received immediate medical attention from the school nurse before being transported to the hospital. He is currently in a stable but serious condition.
Collins now faces upcoming legal proceedings, including a potential extradition to Lawrence County, Ohio, where he faces additional charges. These charges are related to previously filed cases of stalking and menacing in Lawrence County.
The attack has left the community in shock, raising concerns about school safety and the impact of personal disputes within educational environments.