Student Collapsed After Stafford High School Assault: Police

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A student collapsed after an assault at Stafford High School on Wednesday, the Stafford County Sheriff's Office said.

A helicopter took the student to an area hospital for treatment. On Thursday, authorities said the student did not suffer any major injuries.

Another student is charged with malicious wounding. The suspect is being held at the Stafford County Juvenile Detention Center.

The assault occurred around 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday in the Stafford High School gym. Authorities reported that two students were arguing over a previous incident when one student assaulted the other.

"After both parties were separated, the victim was taken to the nurse’s office where he collapsed," the sheriff's office said in a report. A helicopter arrived and took the victim to an area hospital.

Stafford Schools official shared a letter with Patch that was sent to families on Wednesday.

Written by principal Allen Hicks, the letter emphasizes that violence is not tolerated at Stafford High School.

"This incident is not indicative of the way we conduct ourselves at Stafford High School," Hicks wrote. "Each of us is expected to carry ourselves with respect, responsibility, and integrity each and every day."

Hicks noted that the students involved would be punished in accordance with school system's code of conduct. He did not provide any information about how many students were involved in the assault.

"Resorting to violence is never the answer," Hicks wrote. "The entire Stafford High School community is committed to upholding a safe and supportive environment."

Some students recorded the assault, school officials said. Hicks noted that school staff "retrieved" most of the recordings, but urged students to delete any videos they may have to protect student privacy.

"We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this time," Hicks said. "We look forward to strengthening a collaborative relationship with parents."