Virginia High School Runner Cleared for Nationals After Baton Incident Leads to Assault Charges
Kaelen Tucker returns to competition following a serious injury, while Alaila Everett faces legal challenges and community support over the disputed relay race incident.
- Kaelen Tucker, injured during a relay race baton strike, has been cleared to compete at the Adidas Track Nationals after recovering from a concussion and possible skull fracture.
- Alaila Everett, the runner accused of striking Tucker, faces assault and battery charges but maintains the incident was an accident caused by losing her balance.
- A protective order has been issued against Everett, preventing her from contacting Tucker as legal proceedings continue.
- Everett has received public support from her community, holding a rally to assert her innocence and deny any intent to harm Tucker.
- The incident has sparked broader conversations about sportsmanship, accountability, and social tensions, including allegations of racial harassment against Everett's family.
New York Post 
