Parents Outraged as 5 Teens Rushed to Hospital After Eating Marijuana Gummies at School

A Fort Lauderdale high school turned into a scene of panic Wednesday morning after several students reportedly fell ill from eating marijuana-laced gummies, prompting a swift emergency response and a wave of concern from parents.

Officials said the incident unfolded just after 9 a.m. at Stranahan High School. According to Broward County Public Schools, five students were taken to the hospital “out of an abundance of caution,” though Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue confirmed four were treated for possible THC ingestion.

Paramedics were called after the students complained of dizziness, nausea, and feeling disoriented — symptoms consistent with consuming high-potency cannabis edibles, which can be far stronger than users realize.

“I just heard some kids took gummy drugs,” said student Brandon Jordan. “That’s very irresponsible. When you’re on drugs at school, it’s not good — you can act crazy.”

Another student recalled seeing emergency vehicles rush onto campus. “I saw the ambulance through the window,” the student said. “Just say no to drugs.”

Parents who arrived at the school expressed fear and frustration. Diane Kohler, who came to pick up her granddaughter, said, “That’s disturbing. I wondered about that going around in school. You don’t expect it to happen here.”

Steve Serrano, waiting for his freshman son, said the episode was “every parent’s nightmare.”

“It’s not a good situation,” Serrano told reporters. “You never want your kids to be in a circumstance where they have to go to the hospital — especially for something like this.”

Serrano added that he frequently talks to his son about drugs and peer pressure. “We have those conversations all the time,” he said. “I tell him to stay alert and know what’s happening around him.”

Incidents involving THC-infused snacks have surged across the U.S. in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reports of accidental or intentional ingestion of marijuana edibles among minors have tripled since 2020. Officials warn that the colorful packaging and candy-like appearance make the products especially appealing — and dangerous — to teens.

Broward County school officials confirmed an investigation is underway to determine how the edibles entered campus and whether disciplinary action will follow. “Student safety remains our top priority,” the district said in a statement.

Authorities are reminding parents to check backpacks and discuss the risks of edibles with their children.

“This isn’t just about one bad decision,” said a Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue spokesperson. “It’s about awareness — because one small gummy can have very big consequences.”

Source: CBS News / Broward County Public Schools / CDC Data on Teen Edible Use