Child Stuck By Discarded Needle at Pine Bank

A child was taken to Melrose-Wakefield Hosptial after a playmate stuck him with a discarded needle found at Pine Banks Park last week, police confirmed Wednesday.

Melrose Police responded to the scene of the incident and safely disposed of the needle, though responding officers determined the incident took place in the Malden part of the park, Melrose Police Lt. Decroteau said.

Malden Police Capt. Thomas Swanson confirmed the incident but said the department had no official police report for the call.

The students were reportedly on a field trip to the park, though neither department could confirm with which program.

Children should avoid syringes they find and tell an adult, according to experts.

Adults, if careful, can pick up a syringe by its blunt end and place it in a sealed container – such as a milk jug or soda bottle – before disposal.