Fights at Lakeland lead to lockdown; no injuries reported

Published 12:46 pm Thursday, March 17, 2022

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Several Suffolk police officers responded to multiple fights late Thursday morning in the Lakeland High School cafeteria. No injuries were reported.

The school resource officer reported the incident to emergency dispatch at 11:28 a.m., according to a news release, and Lakeland was placed on lockdown due to the incident.

Police said that it is not known whether the fights were related.

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City spokesman Tim Kelley said late Thursday afternoon that the incident was still under investigation.

Lakeland Assistant Principal Marie Bullock sent an email to parents letting them know of the incident.

“As you know, I always stress the importance of keeping an open line of communication between the home and the school,” the letter states. “I also want to assure you that the safety of every child here is our primary concern. As such, I need to inform you of a disturbance that occurred this morning on the campus of Lakeland High School.

“As students were transitioning to lunch, multiple fights occurred in the cafeteria area. The school was placed on a Code Yellow to clear the halls and get students into their classes. No weapons were involved. The Suffolk Police Department was contacted, and the investigation remains ongoing.

“Please discuss with your child the importance of telling a teacher, administrator, or staff member when they know of a situation that could threaten student safety. If your student is aware of any information related to these incidents, please encourage them to tell an administrator or school staff member. Thank you for your continued support to keep Lakeland High School safe.”