A Portsmouth high school athlete has been charged with assault and battery after a viral video showed her striking another runner with a baton during a track meet earlier this month.
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Sixteen-year-old Alaila Everett, a student at I.C. Norcom High School, was officially charged following the March 3 incident at the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Championship. During the second leg of the 4×200 relay, Everett was captured on video hitting fellow runner Kaelen Tucker in the head with her baton as Tucker attempted to pass her. Tucker immediately dropped her baton and clutched her head in pain. She was later diagnosed with a concussion.
The City of Lynchburg Commonwealth’s Attorney confirmed that a petition for assault and battery was issued following the incident. Everett’s father, Genoah Everett, defended his daughter, claiming the contact was accidental and happened as Alaila struggled to maintain balance during the race.
Since the video went viral, Everett has faced online backlash, including racial slurs and threats. The Portsmouth NAACP has expressed concern for her well-being and stated they are reviewing the situation.
Kaelen’s parents said the school’s athletic director and Everett’s father have since apologized, but they have not received direct contact from Alaila or her coach.
Portsmouth Public Schools reported the incident to the VHSL, which is still investigating. “We are cooperating with the VHSL in its work. The division will support and follow the ruling upon its completed investigation,” the district said in a statement.
The VHSL stated that disqualifying Everett from the race was the correct course of action and reaffirmed their commitment to student-athlete safety.
