3 Students Charged After Fight At Patriot High School: Police

MANASSAS, VA — A student lost consciousness during a fight at Patriot High School on Wednesday morning, the Prince William County Police Department said.

The student, who police identified as a 14-year-old boy, received treatment for injuries that were not life-threatening.

Three students were charged in connection with the assault. A 15-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy were charged with malicious wounding and assault by mob. Another 17-year-old boy was charged with assault and battery and assault by mob.

Court dates are pending for the three suspects, the police department said.

The fight occurred around 7:40 a.m. on Wednesday, according to authorities. Police officials said the victim and a 17-year-old had an altercation in one of the school's common areas before classes started.

Eventually, two other students joined the fight and kicked the victim and knocked him to the ground, the police department said. The three students continued to assault the victim as he temporarily lost consciousness.

"The safety of our students, staff, and visitors is our highest priority," principal Michael Bishop said in a letter to families. "This type of violence will not be tolerated at Patriot High School, and those students involved will be disciplined according to the PWCS Code of Behavior."

Bishop also noted that at least one student recorded the assault and shared it with other students.

"Please reinforce with your students the importance of resolving conflict peacefully by alerting a trusted adult with concerning information," Bishop said. "I appreciate your cooperation and support."