PUTNAM COUNTY, TN — Two juveniles were hospitalized Wednesday after a suspected overdose from a THC vape device at Upperman High School, prompting an investigation by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and local school resource officers.
Authorities said the students showed signs of an overdose and were initially treated at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. One of the juveniles was later airlifted to Vanderbilt Hospital due to the severity of their condition.
According to investigators, the incident began when a male student brought what is believed to be a THC vape device to school and shared it with others. The two students who reportedly used the device began showing symptoms that led to emergency medical treatment.
Detectives recovered the vape device from the student’s residence and submitted it to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for forensic examination.
The juvenile who brought the device to school was taken into custody and charged with reckless endangerment and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is currently being held at the Putnam County Juvenile Detention Center.
Further charges pending based on forensic results
Sheriff Eddie Farris said additional charges may be filed depending on the outcome of the lab analysis.
“The safety and health of our children is our top priority. I urge parents and guardians to talk to your children about the consequences and dangers of vaping these unknown products,” Sheriff Farris stated in the release.
Authorities have not released the names or ages of those involved due to their status as juveniles.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident in coordination with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.