Officer Who Tried to Save Lac Leamy Drowning Victim Stresses the Importance of CPR Training
A serious stabbing incident at Notre Dame College School in Welland resulted in two students being hospitalized and a 17-year-old facing multiple criminal charges.
According to Niagara Regional Police, the incident occurred on May 1, 2019, and involved four students. One student sustained stab wounds, while another suffered minor injuries. The accused, a 17-year-old male, was charged with aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, uttering threats, and breach of recognizance. As he is a minor, his identity has not been released.
What Happened at Notre Dame College School
Police confirmed that a 17-year-old student was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while a 15-year-old student was treated for minor injuries.
In a video released by police, Principal Ken Griepsma explained that shortly after 11:00 a.m., students brought an injured peer to his office who was “bleeding rather profusely.” Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, school staff immediately called 911.
Details of the incident were reported by CBC News, which noted that the stabbing involved four students and prompted an immediate emergency response by school staff and first responders. You can read the full original report here:
👉 2 students injured, teen arrested after stabbing at Welland high school
Immediate First Aid Response
While emergency services were on the way, school staff provided first aid to control the bleeding and support the injured student. Police later confirmed that the rapid response helped stabilize the situation until paramedics arrived, at which point emergency crews continued care and transported the student to hospital.
This incident highlights how knowing how to check the scene, call for help, and control severe bleeding can make a critical difference in emergencies involving violence or trauma.
Training such as Standard First Aid, which covers scene assessment, severe bleeding, shock, and emergency response, Prepares individuals to act quickly and confidently in situations like this. Courses such as the Standard First Aid and CPR program offered by Winnipeg First Aid help equip students, staff, and community members with essential life-saving skills.
School Safety Measures and Community Response
Following the incident, the school was placed under a hold-and-secure for approximately three hours. Out of an abundance of caution, nearby schools and assisted living communities were also secured.
John Crocco, Director of Education for the Niagara Catholic District School Board, emphasized that the safety of students and timely medical care were the top priorities. He also praised the teachers, students, and parents at Notre Dame College School for their calm, responsible response during a highly stressful event.
Ongoing Investigation
Police later confirmed the stabbing was not related to an alleged social media threat investigated the week prior. Authorities cautioned the public against spreading misinformation and encouraged people to rely on official updates from police and the school board. The investigation remains ongoing.
Why First Aid Training Matters
In emergencies involving serious bleeding, every minute counts. Knowing how to:
Ensure the scene is safe
Call emergency services promptly
Control heavy bleeding
Provide care until help arrives
Learn More: Be Prepared to Help
Emergencies can happen without warning, and being prepared can truly save lives. Having basic first aid and CPR knowledge allows you to respond quickly, control injuries such as severe bleeding, and provide care until emergency services arrive.
Enrolling in a first aid and CPR course helps build the confidence and skills needed to act calmly and effectively during stressful situations—whether at school, work, or in the community.
Helpful Resources
For additional learning and emergency preparedness tips, explore the following trusted resources:
About The Author
Mark Kascha
Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.
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Last reviewed: March 2026
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