Washington, D.C.: One Teenage Boy Was Fatally Stabbed Outside KIPP DC College Preparatory School

A Teenage Student Was Stabbed By A Fellow Classmate Outside KIPP DC College Preparatory School

According to Wtop News, an altercation occurred on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, that led to the fatal stabbing of a 15-year-student in front of KIPP DC College Preparatory. 

Reportedly, Chief Robert Contee, an off-duty police officer, was around the school property and noticed that a group of children did not leave the surrounding area once students were released. The officer witnessed an altercation between two students that resulted in one 16-year-old student fatally stabbing another 15-year-old student. The off-duty officer called in for backup from the D.C. police, who allegedly helped with the safe passage at the school's front. 

In a news conference, it has been stated that at the time of the stabbing, school faculty was present helping with safe passage. The cause for the altercation has not been determined as of yet, but the teenager accused of stabbing the fellow student has been arrested and is in custody.

The KIPP DC College Preparatory School has issued a statement of gratitude, and Chief Robert Contee has urged young people to resolve all conflict "without resorting to the use of a knife of gun violence."

In reaction to the tragic young loss of life, the school closed classes the following Thursday, offered professional counseling, and has increased police presence and security on school property.

Legal Options for School Stabbing Victims

Attorney Laurence Banville has years of experience defending stabbing victims throughout D.C. In an interview about stabbing and gun violence, Banville urges all stabbing victims to enlist the assistance of a stabbing victim attorney.

"All educational institutions have a legal obligation to protect their students on and surrounding school property. Young life is precious, and all children should feel safe and protected when they are in the classroom or on campus. If you or a loved one has been stabbed on or surrounding school property, the institution could be held liable for your injuries. To get justice in the form of financial compensation, a court of law must deem the school negligent. "

"Negligence is determined if a person or institution acted carelessly regarding a foreseeable crime and those actions resulted in a victim's, or their family's, suffering. A court of law can determine a foreseeable crime based on several factors, but one example is if knife or gun violence rates have risen in the neighborhood. In this case, if a school has not implemented additional safety measures such as security checks, installing security cameras, and properly training staff, the institution could be held liable for the victim's and their family's suffering. If you or a loved one has fallen victim to a school stabbing, you could be entitled to compensation. If you are considering filing a civil lawsuit or are questioning if you have the grounds to file a lawsuit, contact an experienced stabbing attorney to determine your course of legal action."

Sources:

Wtop News