Letter to Parents, May 10, 2004
Dear Parents.
On Friday, May 7, 2004, an unfortunate incident occurred on the parking lot after students had been dismissed from the Revel dance. A young man who is a senior at Walbrook High School was wounded on the parking lot, apparently as a result of an altercation with several other young men. The student is currently hospitalized in critical, but stable condition.
While the staff who chaperoned the dance indicated that those students who attended for the most part enjoyed themselves, there was a time when several young men were put out because of an altercation. Based on what we know at this time, the conflict had nothing to do with the dance.
At this time, the incident is under investigation by the Baltimore City Police Department as well as the BCPSS school police. I have been directed by both divisions as well as by central office to inform staff and students that they are not to respond to questions from anyone in the media without authorization from me.
Staff and students have been encouraged to talk to any of our resource staff members in the Mental Health Clinic or guidance office. Also, in order to dispel any other concerns or answer questions that you might have, you are encouraged to call me or Mrs. Eleanor Matthews, assistant principal, at 410-396-7040.
Although this unfortunate incident did occur, we must emphasize that we followed all necessary BCPSS operational procedures regarding security and that an incident of this nature is highly unusual at Western High School.
I assure you that we have taken all necessary follow-up steps and that we will continue our usual security and vigilance at future school events.
Sincerely,
Landa McLaurin
Principal