PHOENIX — Students at Maryvale High School will spend the rest of the week in virtual learning after a deadly stabbing inside a classroom on Tuesday, school officials announced.
The incident occurred just before 11 a.m., when staff alerted the on-campus school safety officer to an assault. Police say 16-year-old Michael Montoya II suffered multiple stab wounds and later died at the hospital.
The student accused in the attack was detained by the safety officer and later taken to a hospital for treatment of a bleeding hand. Investigators say the teen was carrying a folding pocketknife. His identity has not been released.
No other students or staff were injured. Phoenix police emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the campus or public.
Virtual shift and support services
The Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) said Maryvale High School will follow a modified schedule this week, with students learning online through Friday. On-campus support services and counseling will remain available for those who need them.
“Providing emotional support to our students and staff is our top priority as our community processes this tragedy,” PXU Superintendent Thea Andrade said in a statement.
Community call-to-action
Authorities are urging anyone with videos, photos, or information related to the incident to come forward. Submissions can be made online, via a QR code distributed by police, or anonymously through Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO (837-8446) for Spanish speakers.
The investigation into the deadly classroom fight is ongoing.
