A high school track athlete in Virginia has been charged with assault after a viral video showed her bashing an opponent’s head with a baton during a championship meet. Alaila Everett, a student at I.C. Norcom High School, was accused of hitting Brookville High School junior Kaelen Tucker on the head multiple times during the race. Tucker later suffered a concussion and possible skull fracture.
Everett claims the hits were accidental, saying her baton got stuck behind Tucker’s back and caused her to lose balance. However, footage of the incident shows Everett using force to hit Tucker repeatedly. The Virginia High School League (VHSL) has issued a statement stating that it does not comment on individual disciplinary actions due to federal law, but the meet director made the correct decision in disqualifying the runner.
Tucker’s family and friends have defended her, saying she was kind of hysterical after realizing what had happened. The Portsmouth NAACP also released a statement defending Everett, calling the media’s portrayal of her “shameful” and claiming that she is an honor student and a star athlete who has carried herself with integrity.
Everett faces one misdemeanor count of assault and battery, and it is unclear if Tucker’s family will press charges against her. The incident has sparked national controversy and backlash against Everett, with many calling for her to be held accountable for her actions.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/sports/teen-track-runner-who-bashed-opponents-head-baton-charged-assault-battery