NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Drury High School's upper level was temporarily evacuated on Tuesday afternoon after a student used pepper spray in the library. 

 

According to a news post on the school's website, the incident occurred during the lunch period. 

 

"The student who sprayed the substance was identified and removed from the building. The police are currently investigating the incident and the school will pursue criminal charges," according to the post. 

 

Any of the students and staff affected by the spray were given medical attention. 

 

It is not against the law to possess pepper spray for self-defense, although minors between ages 15 and 18 must have a firearms identification card and guardian permission. It is illegal to use in criminal actions.

 

Pepper spray contains capsaicin that causes eye irritation and a burning sensation, and may cause temporary blindness. 

 

A cleaning crew as brought in to air out and upper level and cleaning the carpet. The library was closed for the remainder of the day but the rest of the building was unaffected. 

 

School adjustment counselors were on site should any student have needed additional support, according to the post.