BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — A student at Martin County High School was hospitalized Jan. 13 after becoming ill in what police say may have been caused by inhalation of a contaminated vaping device.

Martin County Schools Police Chief Chris Kidd said the student required immediate medical attention and was treated by emergency medical services at the school before being transported to a hospital for further care. The student’s condition was not released.

“Preliminary investigation indicates the illness may have been caused by inhalation of a contaminated vaping device,” Kidd said in a written statement.

Authorities said there is no indication that other students or staff members were exposed or are at risk.

The device believed to be involved has been secured and will be tested as part of the investigation. Police said charges have already been issued and additional charges are possible.

Kidd warned that vaping devices, particularly those that have been altered or contaminated, present significant dangers.

“Vaping devices, especially altered or contaminated products, pose serious and unpredictable health risks,” he said.

School officials did not release where on campus the incident occurred or whether the district would take disciplinary action, citing the ongoing investigation and student privacy laws.

Police said the case remains active.