Boy arrested after 13-year-old dies from allergic reaction at school

A 13-YEAR-OLD boy has been arrested on suspicion of the attempted murder of a 13-year-old pupil who died after suffering a severe allergic reaction at school.

Karanbir Cheema, known as Karan, died with his parents by his hospital bedside on Sunday, 10 days after the incident.

Detectives arrested the other boy in connection with his death. The teenager was released on bail until late July.

Karan, a pupil at William Perkin Church of England High School, in Greenford, west London, was taken ill at around 11.30am on Wednesday June 28.

Alice Hudson, executive head teacher of Twyford Academy Trust, said that Karan, a Year 8 pupil, had a “number of allergies” and had managed to alert staff to the fact that he urgently needed help before his condition deteriorated.

He was taken to hospital in a lifethreatening condition. Staff did treat him with his medication that was kept in the school’s office before the ambulance arrived but it did not take effect.

Mrs Hudson said: “Karanbir Cheema, known as Karan, was a popular Year 8 student. He had many friends who are devastated at his death, as are the staff. “He was a bright and keen student who excelled in maths. Our thoughts and prayers are with Karan’s family.”

Mrs Hudson said: “(Karan) was able to come to the school office to indicate that he thought he was having an extreme reaction and they were able to immediately administer the normal treatment, which was kept in the office for his care. Very, very tragically in this situation this was not effective.”

She added: “Staff at the school reacted promptly to provide medical intervention and were well supported by the London Ambulance Service who attended the scene.

“The school has robust care plans in place for students with identified medical requirements and Karan’s care plan was promptly put in place.

“But in light of this tragic incident a review of the procedures will be carried out to ensure that the highest level of standards is maintained. The school will not comment on any criminal investigation in relation to this incident.”

A neighbour of the Cheemas, who did not want to be identified, said: “It’s awful news, really awful. He was a lovely boy, him and his brother.”

Another neighbour said that he had been told 10 years ago that Karan suffered from a “serious skin complaint”.

A post-mortem examination is due to take place tomorrow.