
Kansas City, Missouri: On Tuesday, April 12 shortly after the school day began at Northeast Middle School, a security guard became aware of an incident in one of the school's bathrooms.
Inside that bathroom 14-year-old Manuel J. Guzman was found with multiple stab wounds. He was transported to the hospital in life-threatening condition and later succumbed to his injuries.
A GoFundMe account was established to assist the family with funeral expenses.
The student responsible for the stabbing, identified only as a 14-year-old, has been charged as a juvenile with first-degree-murder, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon.
Shortly after news of the stabbing broke, parents began to gather outside of the school, and at least one spoke with WDAF.
"It's like, how did he get in the school with a knife?" What's going on?" A parent identified only as Lewis was quoted as asking. "Basically, how was he able to enter the school with a knife- with mental detectors? I know the metal detectors work because I came to the school with accessories on, and it went off."
Kansas City Public School Superintendent Mark Bedell issued a statement saying that he was "devastated for our students, our families and our NEMS community." The statement went on to say that additional security and counseling services would be available at Northeast Middle School when classes resumed beginning Wednesday.
"Our students need us- now more than ever. Tomorrow, we start the difficult work of helping students and staff process grief and loss," Bedell said. "I need you with Team KCPS to support our students and each other."
The Mayor of Kansas City, Quinton Lucas took to Twitter to express his dismay at the number of homicides happening in such a short time, calling for not only enforcement, but also attention to "youth mental health."
One response though, seems to understand that there is a greater need.
We need strong fathers &where there’s a lack, healthy male role models to step in& fill that void, teach kids how to be responsible, how to love their neighbor as themselves. Programs are great but safe, healthy adults showing up for kids and investing into their lives is better.
— Leigh-Ann Campbell (@LeighAnnCampb3) April 13, 2022