LANSDALE – The North Penn School District announced today, that a student has been detained in connection with a two alarm fire on Tuesday at North Penn High School.

The following is the full contents of an informational release sent out today by the North Penn School District.

A North Penn High School student has been arrested and is presently being detained in juvenile detention in connection with the fire at North Penn High School on May 24th.

The fire resulted in the safe evacuation of approximately 3,000 students and staff. Area fire departments contained the fire to the F-Pod area of NPHS, but the fire caused damage to the band storage area and classrooms on the first floor and smoke exposure to a large portion of the building. The cost of the damage is yet to be determined.

North Penn School District staff worked closely with the Towamencin Township Police Department and fire investigators in the investigation that led to the student’s arrest. In addition to criminal charges the student will face, the student will be subject to the NPSD Student Discipline Code. NPSD will be discussing the seriousness of such actions with students and asks that parents do so as well. Guidance Counselors are always available to speak with students about any concerns about this incident or related matters.

“The safety of our students is priority number one,” said Curtis R. Dietrich, NPSD Superintendent. “It is very concerning that one of our students is involved and it is clear that like anywhere in society, we are not immune to the potential of such acts.”

NPSD administration and board are very appreciative of all those who have helped since the fire occurred, including the first responders, students and staff involved that day.

North Penn High School principal Todd Bauer has been pleased with the manner in which the investigation has been handled.

“I’ve been thoroughly impressed throughout the process. It’s been a collaborative effort and it is good that we have some sort of resolution,” Bauer stated.