Police in Curitiba, southern Brazil, rescued 13 children after a man entered a kindergarten and held them during a standoff lasting more than two hours. The suspect threatened to set the building on fire and was shot and killed during a police intervention, officials said.
Children held inside classroom
Authorities said the man jumped a gate, entered a classroom and kept the children inside while carrying a knife and what was later found to be a replica firearm. He spread a flammable substance in the room and held a lighter, prompting negotiators to try to resolve the situation.
Police said the children became increasingly distressed and that the suspect began physically assaulting them. Officers then entered the room in a tactical operation. At least one child was wounded, although officials did not immediately explain how the injury occurred. All 13 children were rescued alive.
Investigation and support
The incident took place in the Sao Braz neighborhood of Curitiba, a city of about 1.8 million people. Officials identified the suspect but did not publicly release his name. A police spokesperson said the operation was intended to prevent further harm to the children.
Curitiba’s mayor confirmed that the children were safe. City officials said psychological support would be offered to the children and school staff. Police have not publicly established a motive for the hostage-taking.
The rescue brought an end to a tense wait for parents gathered outside the daycare. Authorities are expected to continue reviewing the events leading up to the standoff and the actions taken during the intervention.
