PPB, PF&R Respond to Incident at Benson High School

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On Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at approximately 8:30 a.m., PF&R personnel, followed by PPB officers, responded to Benson Polytechnic High School following a report of a student experiencing a medical emergency. When first responders arrived, they immediately went to the cafeteria area, where school staff were tending to a 15-year-old male student who was in significant distress. The student was transported to a local hospital for further medical treatment.

Based on the preliminary investigation, authorities believe the student mixed numerous chemicals that he brought to the school from home and subsequently ingested the mixture. The exact nature of the substances involved remains under investigation.

As the incident unfolded, the school was evacuated and students were moved to surrounding athletic fields where they were reunited with their families. While PF&R personnel worked to safely neutralize the mixed chemicals in the cafeteria, others assessed more than 100 evacuated students, staff members, and faculty. No additional patients required transport to a hospital, although two staff members went via private vehicle out of an abundance of caution.

Anyone who was at the school and is feeling ill and believes their symptoms may be related to this incident should shower, change into a clean set of clothing, and go outside for fresh air. If symptoms persist, they should seek medical advice from a doctor or other medical professional.

The Metropolitan Explosive Disposal Unit (MEDU) responded to the school to examine the materials involved and ensure the scene was safe. In addition, members of the PPB's Homicide Unit responded as a precaution to determine whether there is any potential criminal nexus to the incident. Detectives are pursuing all appropriate investigative avenues to understand what occurred, as well as where the chemicals came from and what led to the student ingesting them.

PPB recognizes that an incident of this nature can be frightening and unsettling for students, families, school staff, and the broader school community. PPB is working closely with Portland Public Schools officials and PF&R as the investigation continues.

Anyone who may have information about this incident is asked to contact [email protected]… and reference case number 26-262949.

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