Man arrested after trespassing at Forest Lake Area High School, leaving behind knife

A man was arrested after he allegedly trespassed at Forest Lake Area High School, according to an email sent to families.

The man entered the school at 8 a.m. Tuesday as students were arriving for the day, the district said. The man went into the restroom by the front office and left behind some clothes and a knife.

The man was arrested by the school’s resource officer while he was trying to leave, the district said.

Based on surveillance and its investigation, the district said it does not believe the man approached any students. A student may have seen the man go into the restroom but didn’t realize he wasn’t another student.

The district said it is working with the Forest Lake Police Department as it investigates the incident and follows up with charges.

“Our staff and administrators are reviewing our safety procedures and will remain vigilant for any unauthorized people on school grounds,” the district said. “Student safety is always extremely important.”