Three masked juveniles entered a Halifax County Schools bus stopped for a drop-off Tuesday afternoon to fight a student, according to Sheriff Tyree Davis.
Davis said one student was assaulted but didn’t require medical attention.
The assault occurred within the town limits of Enfield at McDaniel and East Alsop streets around 4 p.m.
Davis said the sheriff’s office was notified because a student onboard the bus called their parents and in turn the parents called 911.
The bus was carrying students from Southeast Collegiate Preparatory Academy, the school system said in a statement.
“Through that student and the parents, we identified the bus number. Deputies arrived along with the highway patrol,” Davis said.
The three juveniles who entered the bus without consent were probably onboard for a minute or less, Davis said. The bus driver assisted in pushing the intruders out of the vehicle.
The sheriff said school officials were on the scene to check on students. Major Anzell M. Harris said the school resource officer was also at the scene.
The Enfield Police Department will be responsible for filing charges. Chief Eric Johnson could not immediately be reached for comment as of this report.
The juveniles were identified and while the school system said one was taken into custody, the sheriff said no one has actually been taken into custody. At the conclusion of the investigation juvenile petitions will be sought, Davis said.
Southeast principal Kenneth Perry said, “As a school community, we understand the impact that today’s incident may have on our students and families. Together, we will remain strong, focused, and united, continuing our mission to provide a safe and supportive environment for the growth and development of our students.”
Perry said, “We are committed to working alongside law enforcement and our community partners to prevent such incidents in the future while ensuring that our students’ well-being is our top priority.”
Superintendent Eric Cunningham said, “We take this matter very seriously and will continue to do everything in our power to ensure the safety of our students. In light of this event, we will be reviewing and enhancing our transportation security protocols.”
As a precaution, Cunningham said additional security measures will be implemented, and communication with drivers and families will be increased to ensure everyone is vigilant.
Davis said the matter remains under investigation and anyone with information is encouraged to call Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444 or the Enfield Police Department at 252-445-5122.