CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Charlotte-Mecklenburg school officials confirm three separate fights and multiple instances of weapons being found on school campuses in the past two weeks.
Fights on school campuses
The most recent incident occurred on March 3 at Garinger High School, where officials say, a reported altercation occurred in the bathroom between students. This incident was not shared school-wide with families, and officials could not say how many students were involved.
The same day, extra security was called to Mallard Creek High School following a fight in the cafeteria.
On Feb. 28, at Rocky River High School in Mint Hill, this message was shared from Principal David Legrand to parents and guardians:
This morning, school staff intervened to break up a fight between students. Following that, we were made aware of an alleged threat to the school that is circulating via video. Law enforcement has been notified and is currently investigating. Out of an abundance of caution, there will be an increased law enforcement presence for the rest of the day, and the school is placed in modified lockdown for the remainder of the day, as well.
We ask that you speak with your child(ren) and remind them that all threats have serious consequences. Any student who makes a threat is in violation of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Code of Student Conduct and will be disciplined accordingly, including the potential for criminal charges. We encourage all students to report threats to a trusted adult. Reports can also be made anonymously through the Say Something App or to a truncated adult. Any threats from external sources may result in legal consequences.
As always, the safety and well-being of our students and staff is our top priority. Thank you for your continued support of Rocky River High School.
Weapons reported on campuses
School officials report five separate incidents of weapons reported on campuses across Mecklenburg County. On Feb. 28, at Charlotte Early College, school leaders were alerted to a student allegedly bringing a knife into the building. After a search of the student in question, no weapon was found, officials say.
On Monday, Mar. 3, three knives were found at Tuckasegee Elementary School. That same day, at Harding University High School and Mallard Creek High School, they also found knives in students’ possession. The weapons were confiscated.
The following day, on Mar. 4, an airsoft pistol and a vape pen were found in a student’s backpack at David Cox Elementary School.
School officials say they cannot speak on disciplinary actions taken against the students, but say that any possession of a weapon in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools “is a violation of the Code of Student Conduct and has serious consequences.”
