Minister Chan Chun Sing ‘shocked’ over tragic River Valley High School incident

Minister of Education Chan Chun Sing expressed his “shock” over what he termed as a “tragic incident” that took place at River Valley High School on Monday (Jul 19).

A 16-year-old student was arrested by the Singapore Police Force and will be charged with murder over the death of a 13-year-old student.

Police said they received a call for assistance at 11.40am and upon arrival, officers found the 13-year-old teenager lying motionless with multiple wounds at a toilet.

“The 13-year-old teenager was pronounced dead at the scene by an SCDF paramedic.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the two male teenagers are not known to each other. Notwithstanding the preliminary findings and the arrest of the teenager, the police are continuing their investigations into the motive for the assault,” the police said, adding that an axe was also seized as a case exhibit.

In a Facebook post, Minister Chan said that the Ministry of Education (MOE) is rendering all possible support to the affected families, River Valley High students and staff.

“The safety and well-being of our students and staff are of paramount importance to us.”

Chan Chun Sing also assured students that they will be taken care of and to reach out to an adult, teachers or school counsellors if they need help.

“We are determined to work with parents and students to keep our schools safe and have our children grow up and learn together in a trusted environment.”

Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan Jin also urged everyone to stay calm and “not add to the anguish of the families affected by this tragic incident”.

He also called for the public to not spread images and graphics of the incident, as well as any unfounded rumours.

“Our thoughts are with all affected by this,” he wrote in a Facebook post.