Zion, IL – A 17-year-old student was taken into custody Friday after a stabbing incident at Zion-Benton Township High School District 126, prompting a brief safety alert and emergency response on campus.
According to the Zion Police Department, officers responded Friday, January 9, 2026, to a reported stabbing involving two students at the school, located at 3901 W. 21st Street in Zion. A School Resource Officer (SRO) was already on campus at the time and quickly obtained information identifying the alleged offender.
Police say the suspect fled the school following the incident but was taken into custody off-campus without further incident. Authorities noted the student was cooperative during the arrest.
The victim, a 17-year-old female student, sustained critical injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. No additional details on her condition were released as of Friday afternoon.
Following the incident, Zion-Benton High School was placed on a “Code Yellow” as a precautionary measure. Zion Fire-Rescue and additional police personnel responded to the scene, while school administrators coordinated closely with law enforcement.
Police emphasized that the stabbing is considered an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to students or staff. Normal safety protocols were followed, and the situation was contained quickly.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no charges had been formally announced as of publication. Due to the ages of those involved, authorities did not release names or further identifying details.
Parents and community members seeking updates are encouraged to monitor official communications from Zion Police and Zion-Benton Township High School District 126.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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