Elk Grove elementary students injured by falling metal plate in cafeteria

Three students were hospitalized after an air-conditioning fixture detached and fell during lunchtime at Ellen Feickert Elementary School, officials with the Elk Grove Unified School District said in a letter to families.

The incident occurred Thursday in the school cafeteria while students were eating. According to the letter, the metal register plate struck one student directly and injured two others. Emergency personnel responded immediately, and all three pupils were taken to a hospital for evaluation. Their ages and conditions were not disclosed.

Staff and outside safety inspectors were investigating the equipment failure, the district said.

“We are committed to identifying and resolving any issues before students return to that area of the building,” the district said in the letter.

The school also made counseling and support services available for students who witnessed the event.

“The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority,” the district wrote.