Chester County Man Arrested After Breaking Into Pre-K Classroom and Grabbing Child
CHESTER COUNTY, S.C. — A South Carolina man is facing multiple charges after deputies say he broke through a Pre-K classroom window, entered the room, and grabbed a child he did not know before being subdued by law enforcement.
According to the Chester County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect — identified as D’arrius Tyrese Edwards — allegedly used his head to break the glass window of a Pre-K classroom at the Chester Park Complex on Friday. After forcing his way inside, he reportedly grabbed a young child in front of students and staff.
Teachers immediately intervened, attempting to free the child from Edwards’ grasp, but he fought them off and escaped through the same broken window, deputies said.
Taser Used to Subdue Suspect
A school resource officer on site quickly responded to the situation and ordered Edwards to release the child. When he refused to comply, the officer deployed a taser, successfully stopping him and allowing authorities to take the child to safety.
Deputies confirmed that no children or staff suffered major injuries during the frightening incident, though several witnesses were visibly shaken. The suspect was taken into custody shortly after.
Suspect Faces Multiple Charges
Edwards now faces a list of serious charges, including burglary, kidnapping, and assault. Authorities say it remains unclear what motivated his actions or whether he had any prior connection to the school.
Investigators have confirmed that Edwards did not know the child involved in the incident, and there is no evidence suggesting that the attack was targeted.
Community and School Officials React
The Chester County School District praised the quick response of both teachers and the school resource officer, noting that their actions prevented what could have been a much worse situation.
“Our staff acted heroically to protect students and alert law enforcement within seconds,” a district spokesperson said. “We are incredibly thankful that all students are safe.”
Parents were notified shortly after the event, and additional officers were stationed at the Chester Park Complex as a precaution.
Ongoing Investigation
Edwards remains in custody at the Chester County Detention Center pending a bond hearing. The investigation is ongoing, and mental health evaluations may be requested as part of court proceedings.
Residents are encouraged to remain alert and report suspicious activity near school zones.
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