A juvenile has been charged following a drug-related medical emergency involving multiple students at Winston Churchill High School on Feb. 9.
According to the Eugene Police Department, the juvenile faces charges of manufacturing and delivering a level one controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school.
Police spokesperson Melinda McLaughlin said the substance involved was related to 1,4-butanediol (BDO), an industrial solvent used in the production of plastics, polymers, adhesives, and specialty chemicals. When ingested, the body can convert BDO into GHB, a controlled substance that can cause serious harm, including loss of consciousness and respiratory depression.
The Drug Enforcement Administration warns that GHB is sometimes used recreationally and has been associated with sexual assault. According to the agency, BDO/GHB is abused by some teens and young adults as an alcohol substitute at parties and raves. Street names include BD, BDO, Liquid Fantasy, Cleaner, One Comma Four, OneFour Bee and One Four BDO.
Authorities said dispatchers received reports shortly after 11 a.m. of a student experiencing a medical issue at the school. A second student was later found with similar symptoms.
Crews from Eugene Springfield Fire transported both students to a local hospital for treatment. Two additional students were evaluated and treated at the school.
In an email to parents, Churchill High Principal Kevin Rodemack said the incident occurred during second period and that school health staff provided immediate care before emergency responders arrived. He said the students received appropriate treatment but declined to provide further details, citing student privacy laws.
“Student safety and well-being is our top priority and our district staff are helping to provide extra support as necessary to address concerns about what was scary for some,” Rodemack said.
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