School Attack: Stabbing, Explosives

A former student launched a coordinated attack on a California learning center, stabbing staff members and planting explosive devices in what authorities describe as a premeditated assault on vulnerable educators.

Story Snapshot

• Former student stabbed two staff members at Switzer Learning Center in Torrance, California
• Suspect placed two incendiary devices near the school before being taken into custody
• Los Angeles County bomb squad successfully neutralized both explosive devices
• Attack targeted specialized school serving 60 students with learning differences

Coordinated Attack Strikes Specialized School

The Monday morning attack at Switzer Learning Center demonstrated clear premeditation, combining violent assault with explosive threats. The former student stabbed two staff members around 8:15 a.m., then informed authorities about placing incendiary devices near the intersection of Amapola Avenue and 208th Street. This dual-threat approach created maximum chaos and required extensive emergency response resources to protect the small school community of approximately 60 students.

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Bomb Squad Neutralizes Explosive Threat

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department bomb squad arrived at 9:40 a.m. to address the explosive devices. After hours of careful work, authorities announced at approximately 3:00 p.m. that both incendiary devices had been “rendered safe” with no ongoing public threat. The successful neutralization prevented potential catastrophic damage to the residential area surrounding the specialized learning facility.

Vulnerable Educational Community Targeted

Switzer Learning Center serves as a specialized non-public school that has operated for six decades, providing individualized education for students with learning differences. The attack specifically targeted educators who dedicate their careers to helping vulnerable student populations. Both injured staff members required hospitalization but sustained non-life-threatening injuries, demonstrating the quick response that likely prevented more severe casualties.

Security Gaps Exposed at Specialized Facilities

This incident highlights concerning security vulnerabilities at specialized educational institutions that may lack the comprehensive safety infrastructure of larger public school districts. The former student’s ability to access the facility and execute a coordinated attack raises questions about threat assessment procedures for individuals with prior connections to these schools. The attack occurred despite the school being in session on what was described as a holiday, suggesting potential gaps in security protocols during non-standard operating days.

Law enforcement recovered evidence including a knife and backpack at the scene while the suspect remains in custody. The Torrance Police Department continues investigating the incident and requests anyone with information to contact them at (310) 328-3456. This attack underscores the critical need for enhanced security measures at educational facilities serving our most vulnerable students and the dedicated professionals who serve them.

Sources:

Officials investigating potential pipe bombs in Torrance after stabbing at school