Credit: WAVY TV 10 & Facebook
Shocking Moment Runner ‘Attacked’ With Baton By Opponent During Race Goes Viral
A horrifying moment a runner was ‘attacked’ with a baton by an opponent during a major race has sparked debate.
The shocking incident at the VHSL Class 3 State Indoor Championships at Liberty University has left a high school sprinter injured and sparked widespread controversy.
Brookville High School athlete Kaelen Tucker suffered a concussion and a possible skull fracture after being struck in the back of the head with a relay baton by her competitor, Alaila Everett of I.C. Norcom High School.
The dramatic moment was caught on video and quickly went viral, leading to accusations of intentional foul play and a heated debate over Everett’s intentions.
Tucker was competing in the 4×200 meter relay when she attempted to overtake Everett on the track’s curve.
Video footage shows Everett appearing to slow down before swinging her arm back and striking Tucker on the head with her baton.
The impact sent Tucker tumbling to the ground, clutching her head in pain, while an audible gasp erupted from the audience.
Tucker later described the event, explaining that as she tried to merge into the lane, Everett repeatedly bumped her arm before ultimately delivering the decisive blow.
Medical examinations confirmed that Tucker sustained a concussion and a potential skull fracture, per WSLS.
Her family, deeply upset by the incident, has spoken out about the lack of concern from Everett and her team.
They claim that despite being present at the event and watching the footage, no one from Everett’s side offered an apology or checked on Tucker’s well-being.
Tucker’s mother, Tamarro, has since contacted the sport’s governing body, which has launched an investigation into the alleged assault.
As the controversy grew, Everett defended herself, insisting that the hit was unintentional.
Speaking to WAVY-TV 10, she explained that while running behind Tucker, her baton got caught on Tucker’s back, causing her to lose balance.
She claimed that when she moved her arms again, the baton accidentally struck Tucker. Through tears, Everett maintained that she would never intentionally harm another competitor.
Her parents have also stood by her, supporting her claim that it was merely an unfortunate accident.
Despite Everett’s explanation, the Lynchburg Commonwealth’s Attorney, Bethany Harrison, confirmed that she has been charged with misdemeanor assault and battery.
The Virginia High School League, along with the Portsmouth branch of the NAACP, is reviewing the incident.
The NAACP is also investigating allegations that Everett’s family has faced racial slurs and threats in the aftermath.
Adding another layer to the controversy, a professional lip reader analyzed the viral video and claimed that Everett said, ‘Get off’ and ‘Hey,’ before striking Tucker.
The footage also allegedly shows Everett grabbing Tucker’s head and pushing her off the track after the baton strike.
Following the impact, Everett was seen making a second striking motion toward Tucker before dropping her baton and running past, pointing at her fallen competitor.
Tucker’s family has since taken legal action, filing for a protective order against Everett.
They remain adamant that an apology should have been offered, regardless of Everett’s intent.
While Everett claims she attempted to reach out, she stated that Tucker has blocked her on social media and has not been receptive to any communication.
The incident has sparked intense debate within the track and field community and beyond.
While some argue that Everett’s actions were deliberate and warrant severe consequences, others believe the hit was accidental and that the backlash against her has been excessive.
As the investigation continues, officials will determine whether further disciplinary action is necessary.
In the meantime, Tucker focuses on her recovery while her family seeks accountability for what they firmly believe was an intentional and dangerous act.
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