Tensions flared at Southern School of Energy and Sustainability in Durham this morning, leading to a physical altercation amongst students. Just before the lunch hour at approximately 11:30 a.m., the School Resource Officer (SRO) stationed at Southern High School was summoned to de-escalate a fight that had erupted among multiple students. In an attempt to quell the altercation, the SRO was compelled to deploy a Taser when the scuffle escalated, effectively dispersing the combatants and thankfully resulting in no injuries. Following the fracas, the school went into a “Hold” status, lasting about 20 minutes, a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all on campus.
According to a release from the Durham County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), additional deputies arrived at the scene to assist with the aftermath of the fight. These officers assumed the task of gathering accounts from those who witnessed the incident, and from those directly involved. The DCSO, in conjunction with Durham Public Schools, is currently investigating the episode in detail to determine the identities of all participating individuals, and, to assess the necessity to lay down any criminal charges, stemming from the events of the morning.
The school has returned to normal operations since the incident, but the situation has raised concerns about school safety and how conflicts are handled in educational settings. Questions about the role of School Resource Officers (SROs) and the use of force in schools are part of the ongoing discussion…