What Happened
A stabbing incident occurred at Foss High School in Tacoma on Thursday, April 30, 2026 during lunchtime. First responders were called after reports of a fight between students. The altercation reportedly began over a vaping device battery. Four students and one security guard were stabbed or cut. The suspect, a 16-year-old student, also sustained minor wounds during the incident. All victims were transported to the hospital, with four in critical condition.
The Suspect
The 16-year-old suspect was taken into custody with minor injuries that were treated. The juvenile was booked into Pierce County Jail on five counts of first-degree assault on Thursday. According to headlines from May 1, the suspect was charged as an adult, with bail set at $750,000. The suspect made a first court appearance on May 2.
Victim Status
Five people were recovering in the hospital on Friday, May 1. Four of the victims were in critical condition immediately after the incident. By Friday, all victims were reported to be in stable condition. The injuries included stab wounds and cuts sustained during the altercation.
School Response
The school was placed on lockdown and then evacuated after the incident. Classes and after-school activities were canceled until Monday, May 5. Counselors and additional administrative staff were scheduled to be on campus to support staff and students. The Tacoma Public Schools superintendent addressed the incident, and community organizations began discussing efforts to combat youth violence in the area.
Historical Context
Foss High School, which enrolls 557 students and is located about 40 miles south of Seattle, was the site of a fatal shooting in 2007. A 17-year-old student killed a classmate in a crowded hallway and was sentenced to a 23-year prison term. 
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