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Students Describe Moments Before Stabbing, Police Search For Motive

BROOMFIELD, Colo. (CBS4) - A middle school student was allegedly stabbed by one of her classmates on the playground at Aspen Creek K-8 school in Broomfield on Thursday. Police continue to search for a motive in the attack but students who know the suspect said he was acting strange.

The 14-year-old victim was stable on Thursday evening but not much information was released about her condition.

The stabbing happened at the school about 11:30 a.m. near 136th and Sheridan in Broomfield. The 14-year-old suspect was taken into police custody.

"Nobody wants to have a day like this at school, anywhere, at any time," said Boulder Valley School District spokesman Briggs Gamblin.

Aspen Creek Stabbing
(credit: Glenn McReynolds)

Eighth grader Skyler Coleman said one of his classmates was offended by a joke.

"He's been depressed for quite awhile and I think thye just pushed it and he snapped," said Coleman.

Coleman said the suspect grabbed a knife from his binder and stabbed another eighth grader in the back.

broomfield aspen creek
Broomfield Police outside Aspen Creek school after a stabbing (credit: CBS)

The victim was airlifted to a nearby hospital and the school placed on lockout which meant that no one was allowed inside. That included anxious parents who wanted to pick up their children.

"It's really scary, so close to home," said one parent.

"Really freaked out," said another.

Some students who know the suspect said he was acting differently that morning.

"He has long hair and it flipped over his face, his head down and just walking and he was shaking," said Eighth grader Bryce Laude.

Aspen Creek Stabbing
The scene Thursday morning (credit: Mark Neitro)

Police in Broomfield continue to investigate the stabbing and are still unclear on the suspect's motive.

The community is shaken up.

"Disheartening that schools have come to this. I used to be a teacher and I just couldn't image what those kids were feeling," said one parent.

Aspen Creek said counselors are available for students and staff. Classes will resume on Friday as scheduled.

Note To Parents From Aspen Creek K-8 School

Aspen Creek K-8 will follow a regular school schedule on Friday. Counseling support will be available to students throughout the school day. Should your child need additional support, please contact Kim Coringrato at 720-561-8010.

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