Local

Police swarm Harding University High School parking lot after large fight

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Chopper 9 Skyzoom was overhead Friday afternoon as Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers swarmed the bus parking lot at Harding University High School in west Charlotte after a fight involving students.

[ALSO READ: CMS middle school teacher beaten while breaking up fight, sources say]

Police said they responded to the school right around dismissal after a report of a crowd fighting. They said officers arrived, secured the scene and most have since left the school.

Chopper 9 could see dozens of patrol cars blocking off the school’s bus lot. Students were also lined up on the side of the lot.

A neighbor told Channel 9 said his sons and grandchildren attended Harding. He said violence at the school is growing.

"In the last couple years, it's changed a lot. It used to be a peaceful school, but it seems like everything is starting to accelerate,” Gregory Brown said.

At last check, no students were taken into custody.

Police have not said what started the fight or if anyone was hurt.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District said the following message went out to families: 

Good afternoon Harding families,

This is Principal Ward calling with an important message. Student safety is our top priority. This afternoon, law enforcement was called to a situation on our campus that may have threatened student safety. This was done out of an abundance of caution and there is no continued threat. Thank you for your support of Harding University High.

Check back for updates on this developing story.