Charles County, MD – Two separate incidents of student-on-student violence occurred on October 17 at Jenifer Elementary School and Westlake High School, prompting school and law enforcement investigations. Both incidents resulted in injuries, and authorities are asking the community for assistance in gathering information.
In the first incident, a student at Jenifer Elementary School was physically assaulted by another student. According to reports, the victim was struck several times in the head. A school nurse provided immediate care before the student was transported to a nearby hospital by EMS as a precautionary measure.
The elementary school student responsible for the assault cannot face criminal charges under Maryland law due to their age. However, the school resource officer has contacted the Charles County Department of Juvenile Services to determine the next steps. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the assault to contact Cpl. Caballero at 301-609-3282, extension 0573.
Later the same day, an unrelated assault occurred at Westlake High School, escalating tensions among multiple students. The initial confrontation began when one student aggressively approached another inside the school. In response, the student being approached used pepper spray to defend themselves. This act triggered an altercation, which school staff quickly intervened to stop.
The situation further escalated when the student who had been confronted fled outside, only to be pursued by three other students. These students caught up with the individual and physically attacked them, striking the student multiple times before both the school resource officer and school staff could step in to separate the group.
The injured student was treated for injuries sustained during the assault. The school resource officer continues to investigate the incident, and those involved may face both criminal charges and disciplinary consequences from the school. Investigators are asking anyone with information about the Westlake High School assault to contact PFC Joffe at 301-609-3282, extension 0608.
Both incidents are part of ongoing investigations, and authorities are encouraging the community to come forward with any relevant information. As schools across Charles County continue to emphasize student safety, these incidents highlight the importance of swift action and vigilance in preventing violence on school grounds.
