W.L. Holladay, III
ATHENS-Media Release by Athens City Schools superintendent W.L. Holladay, III regarding the stabbing at the Athens High School:
“This afternoon two students from Athens High School were involved in an altercation in which one was injured and air-lifted to Huntsville Hospital for treatment. At this time, we understand that the student has no serious injuries.The other student has been taken in to custody by the Athens City Police Department for questioning and police have taken statements from students that may have witnessed the incident. No other students were harmed in this incident. As this is an active investigation by the Athens Police Department, we will have no other media advisories or statements until APD’s investigation is concluded. Chief Floyd Johnson will inform us when it is completed.
To the Athens City Schools Family
Athens City Schools is saddened by this situation, but wants to assure our students, parents, and community that we will continue to provide safe and secure buildings and grounds through our local partnership with the Athens Police Department. This isolated incident will not deter our diligence in this pursuit. We want to thank the Athens Police and Fire Departments and the Athens – Limestone Hospital Emergency Services for their quick and immediate response to our situation. I also appreciate the Athens High School administrators and faculty for responding quickly to get professional help to the campus. The location of the incident on campus and the immediate response of the city departments listed, allowed the school day to end normally and without activating additional emergency procedures.Several of our community members may be affected by this incident and all of the Athens High School counselors and staff will be available for any student that needs assistance.
All of the schools within the system will operate on their regular schedules tomorrow, but if parents wish to have personal time with their child instead, then the school system will honor those wishes and those absences will be excused. We expect there to be requests for additional information, but until the investigation is concluded, please know that we cannot comment.
Please keep all of our students, faculty, and the families affected from Athens High School in your thoughts and prayers.”
Featured photo provided by Holly Hollman
