Virginia High School Runner Charged After Baton Incident at State Championship
Alaila Everett faces assault charges following a viral video showing her striking opponent Kaelen Tucker, who suffered a concussion and possible skull fracture.
- The incident occurred during a 4x200-meter relay race at the Virginia High School League State Championships on March 4 at Liberty University.
- Video footage shows Everett striking Tucker in the head with a baton, leading to Tucker's fall and subsequent injuries, including a concussion and a possible skull fracture.
- Everett claims the baton strike was accidental, citing close proximity and loss of balance, but she and her team were disqualified from the race.
- The Lynchburg Commonwealth's Attorney has charged Everett with misdemeanor assault and battery, while Everett and her family report receiving death threats and racial slurs since the incident.
- The Portsmouth NAACP has defended Everett, calling for fair treatment and due process, while the Virginia High School League is reviewing the incident for player safety.