LYNCHBURG, Va. (WSET) — A Virginia student athlete is facing an assault and battery charge following a viral track meet incident that left a runner with a concussion and possible fractured skull.
Lynchburg Commonwealth’s Attorney Bethany Harrison confirmed the charge against Alaila Everett Wednesday afternoon.
The incident happened March 4, during the Virginia State High School League Indoor State Championships. Brookville junior Kaelen Tucker received a blow to the back of her head as she was passing Everett, an I.C. Norcom High School student, in the 4×200 relay race.
Video captured shows Everett seemingly swinging her baton, hitting Tucker in the back of the head and sending her to the ground. Judges immediately disqualified Everett for contact interference.
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The season ended for both girls, as Tucker suffered a concussion and a possible skull fracture.
ABC13 previously spoke with both athletes to hear each side of the story.
In an interview with Everett, the high schooler said the act was not intentional. She claimed she lost her balance when the other athlete got too close to her as they were coming around the track’s curve.
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Tucker, meanwhile, said she just wanted an apology.
There is no set court date for Everett as of yet, but we will provide updates as they become available.
