Virginia High School Runner Charged After Baton Incident During Relay Race
Alaila Everett faces assault and battery charges following a viral video showing her striking competitor Kaelen Tucker, who sustained a concussion and possible skull fracture.
- The incident occurred on March 4 during the 4x200-meter relay at the Virginia State High School League Championships at Liberty University.
- Video footage shows Everett striking Tucker in the head with a baton, leading to Tucker's immediate withdrawal from the race and subsequent medical diagnosis of a concussion and possible skull fracture.
- Everett claims the baton strike was accidental, citing loss of balance and close contact with Tucker during the race, while Tucker and her family question the explanation.
- The I.C. Norcom High School team was disqualified from the race, and Everett has faced online harassment, including racial slurs and death threats, since the video went viral.
- The Virginia High School League and local authorities are investigating the incident, and Everett has been charged with a misdemeanor count of assault and battery.