Chief Brown told the Port Orchard City Council that on Nov. 20 officers were dispatched to South Kitsap High School at 10:58 a.m. and arrived at 11:01. School staff were treating a 15-year-old female in the nurse's office; another 15-year-old male who had called 911 also had been struck. Both victims received medical aid and were transported for additional treatment.

Investigators developed probable cause and arrested a 16-year-old male in the classroom at 11:13 a.m.; the suspect was booked into the Kitsap Juvenile Detention Center and prosecutors may file additional charges as appropriate. Chief Brown said the investigation determined the suspect dropped a metal stanchion from a landing above where the victims were seated; that object struck both students.

The chief apologized for an earlier public message he said had been unclear and which had led some in the community to believe officers had been disciplined. "I could have done better, and for that, I apologize," he said, adding that officers' actions were within policy and legally permissible and that no officers were disciplined. He described departmental debriefs after incidents and pledged to improve coordinated communications with the school district; Superintendent Winter joined discussions about a joint plan for future incidents.

Councilors thanked the department for the quick response and urged development of a communications timeline so the public understands how quickly events unfolded. The chief said the department will continue to evaluate responses and identify improvements. No disciplinary action was reported in connection with the November 20 arrest.