An Ohio high school student was horrifically burned during a classroom science experiment gone wrong. Chloe Walker, 15, from Jamestown near Dayton, was participating in a chemistry experiment when it exploded, causing burns to 45 percent of her body at Greeneview High School, according to WHIO.
Details of the Incident
Silvercreek Township Fire Chief Steve Payton told the outlet: 'There was some kind of chemical, an ethanol-type chemical, that they were using on paper to freeze and burn, just a little science experiment.' Walker's airways were compromised, and she had burns around her mouth and face on Wednesday, Payton said. 'All the burns were to the top section of her mid torso, her arms, and face, so she was critical when she left here.'
Walker was airlifted to Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, where she remains for treatment. Two others also suffered injuries: one had minor burns, and another had a panic attack. The fire alarms went off, and students had to evacuate the school, where Walker's mother works as a secretary.
Community Support
Walker is in stable condition and in good spirits, her family told WHIO. A GoFundMe page has been started to help with medical expenses, raising nearly $67,000 as of Tuesday afternoon. Local businesses have rallied behind the family, with Jamestown Cafe and Small-Town Roots Salon & Spa hosting fundraisers. The cafe donated 30 percent of purchases on Sunday to the Walker family, raising $7,595. Those who donated also received a free donut and coffee.
Ashley Mannier, the cafe's owner, told WHIO that Walker's classmates are 'showing up' strongly for her. 'And we hope that that presence speaks volumes,' she said. Jamestown Church of Christ also donated money toward Walker's recovery. Pastor Luke Linville said: 'We kind of have a special account... that our church gives to that when things happen in the community. Everybody plays a part in this, you know. Churches play a part, businesspeople play a part, sports teams play a part, families. It’s people giving, but it’s just people praying and praying and praying, and I think that’s a very big, powerful thing.' The church will hold a prayer gathering for Walker on the high school's football field Thursday.
The Daily Mail has reached out to the school and Walker's family for comment.
