ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – After a disturbing fight captured on video near Hazelwood East High School in St. Louis County, several teenagers, aged 14 to 17, are potentially facing assault charges. The altercation, which resulted in 16-year-old Kaylee Gain sustaining a severe head injury, has raised concerns about youth violence in the community.
Following the incident that took place at the intersection of Norgate and Claudine drives after school on Friday, March 8, a 15-year-old girl was arrested on assault charges. The St. Louis County Police Department announced that eight more teenagers, including 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, were referred to St. Louis County Family Court for potential assault charges.
In addition to the fight near Hazelwood East High School, it was revealed that a separate altercation occurred on school property the day before, resulting in the suspension of a student. The attorney for the 15-year-old suspect involved in the incident informed the media that the suspended student was Gain.
St. Louis County Police Col. Kenneth L. Gregory expressed deep concern over the recent violent confrontations involving youth in the area, referring to both the Hazelwood East High School incident and another tragic event where a middle schooler was fatally stabbed in Jennings. The community and law enforcement are saddened by the harm caused to young individuals and are calling for better conflict resolution strategies among teenagers.
Efforts are being made to engage young people through various programs such as the Police Athletic League (PAL) and Career Pathways in Law Enforcement (CAPLE) to address issues of violence and promote safer communities. It is crucial for parents and citizens to have open discussions with youth about the consequences of violence and to encourage seeking help from responsible adults when faced with violent situations.
As the investigation into the Hazelwood East High School fight continues, the community is coming together to address teen violence and ensure the safety of all residents. Through education, support, and communication, it is hoped that such incidents can be prevented in the future.