Harding HS on modified lockdown after police break up fight, officials say

CHARLOTTE — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officers broke up a fight between several students Monday morning at Harding University High School, police told Channel 9.

Officers said they got a call about the confrontation just before 9 a.m. They said they were able to break up the fight and Mecklenburg EMS treated those involved for minor injuries.

Nobody was taken to the hospital, CMPD said.

Harding High School was placed on a modified lockdown Monday morning because of the incident, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

Several CMPD vehicles were at the school Monday. Officers put two people in the back of patrol cars while Channel 9 crews were at the school. Channel 9 has asked police if they made any arrests, and if any students face consequences from the fight.

According to the district, a modified lockdown is initiated when there may be a danger outside of the buildings or off campus. Students and staff are moved (or remain) in classrooms and perimeter doors remain locked, including the front office. Classroom instruction continues as normal, and necessary movement can occur within a building. Police will typically notify administration when the “all clear” can be given.

Students and parents told Channel 9 reporter Gina Esposito they had no idea what was going on.

“I asked them what happened, and they wouldn’t tell me what happened. I noticed there was a lot of police in the back of the school as well. I just sat there waiting. They said my child had to be escorted to the front,” said parent Marie Little. “You’re just worried. You’re worried for the kids these days. "

Police continue to investigate the incident. No other information has been released.

CMS sent the following message to families about the incident:

“Hello Harding University High school families,

“This is Principal, Jane Sutton with an important message. We are dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment at University High school. A fight occurred on our campus today at the beginning of 2nd period involving several students and law enforcement officers were called to ensure the safety and security of our students. This behavior is disruptive and a violation of the CMS Code of Student Conduct and students involved in the incident will be disciplined accordingly.

“The safety of our students and staff remains a top priority. Please speak to your children about appropriate behavior at school and remind them of the serious consequences of their actions.

“We appreciate your support in helping us keep our school safe.”

CMPD has had to respond to Harding several times this school year because of violence on campus. On Dec. 3, police said a student pulled out pepper spray during a fight, hurting a coach and classmate.

Two days before that, officers charged two teens after they discovered a gun on campus following another fight.

And the following week, police said a fight led to two Harding High School students being shot -- right off campus.

Channel 9 has asked CMS if any weapons were found at the school in Monday’s fight.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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