Elementary students hospitalized after eating fentanyl-laced gummies brought from home

The candy, which were brought to school by one of the students, were subsequently tested. The test results indicated that the gummies contained fentanyl, a synthetic analgesic and opioid. Fentanyl directly impacts the central nervous system and, like other opioids, it can lead to severe addiction.

Five students required medical attention after consuming the candies. "Two students were transported by ambulance, while three others were taken in by their parents," noted the Amherst Sheriff's Office, stating that "an investigation into the incident is ongoing."

The Amherst County Public Schools Office confirmed that the bag of gummies was "brought from home by a student." Parents of the students involved were notified about the incident. The school is currently working with the police to further investigate the matter.

The frightening episode was shared on Facebook by the mother of 10-year-old Hayden, one of the boys who was poisoned.

"This was one of the scariest days of my life. I got a call from Hayden’s school, informing that an incident happened. Apparently, him and some kids ate some gummies," wrote Kristina Wright. She added that her son "felt sleepy and was nauseous."

Kristina reported that her son consumed 10 gummies. The boy has since returned home, but Kristina urges other parents: "Get through to your children, let them know they should not accept anything from anyone. This could be life-threatening," she said.