St. Louis County, Missouri – A group of teenagers, ranging in age from 14 to 17, are facing potential assault charges after a fight near Hazelwood East High School resulted in a severe head injury for 16-year-old Kaylee Gain.
The altercation, which occurred at the intersection of Norgate and Claudine drives after school on March 8, led to the arrest of a 15-year-old girl on assault charges. Following this incident, the St. Louis County Police Department revealed that eight more teenagers have been referred to St. Louis County Family Court for consideration of assault charges.
Among the teenagers facing potential charges are a 17-year-old boy, a 17-year-old girl, three 16-year-old boys, two 16-year-old girls, and one 14-year-old girl. While these individuals have not yet been taken into custody, authorities are pursuing legal action in connection to the violent altercation.
The Hazelwood School District disclosed that a separate fight had taken place on school property the day before the incident that led to Gain’s injuries. As investigations continue, community leaders and law enforcement officials are emphasizing the importance of addressing conflicts peacefully and seeking help from responsible adults when faced with violence.
St. Louis County Police Col. Kenneth L. Gregory expressed deep concern over the recent incidents involving young individuals, including the altercation near Hazelwood East High School and the tragic stabbing of a middle schooler in Jennings. He urged parents and citizens to engage in conversations with young people about the consequences of violence and the significance of seeking assistance in volatile situations.
Efforts to engage youths positively through programs like the Police Athletic League (PAL) and School Resource Officers aim to foster safer communities and provide support to students navigating challenging circumstances. By promoting dialogue and intervention, authorities hope to prevent further acts of violence and ensure the well-being of young people in St. Louis County.
In light of these events, the community is rallying against teen violence, banding together to address the root causes of aggression and promote a culture of respect and conflict resolution. As investigations progress and legal proceedings unfold, authorities remain committed to upholding justice and safeguarding the welfare of all individuals involved in these troubling incidents.