SALISBURY, NC (WBTV) -
Police were called to Henderson Independent High School on Thursday for an altercation with a group of non students.
Police say the school resource officer at Henderson Independent High School noticed a group of half a dozen young men, all wearing camouflage clothing, standing near the school around noon on Thursday.
When the principal and the officer approached the group, a fight broke out with the principal, Dr. Chris Vecchione, being punched in the nose. One of the men in the group tossed a handgun on the ground, according to police.
Once the fight was stopped, police were able to grab one of the men while the others scattered. The handgun was also recovered.
Police charged 17 year old Michael Allen Joseph, Jr., with trespassing and assault inflicting serious bodily injury. Bond was set at $20,000.
As a result, the school was placed on a code yellow lockdown. WBTV asked the school system about the incident and received a copy of a note sent to parents on Thursday. The note was produced by Rita Foil, spokesperson for Rowan-Salisbury Schools:
"Parents,
On behalf of Dr. Vecchione, Principal at Henderson, I am calling to inform you that Henderson is in a "Code Yellow" lockdown today as a precautionary measure under the advisement of law enforcement. This action was in response to an altercation that took place on the school campus.
Code "Yellow" means that:
• All doors to the school building are locked and secured
• Students do not leave the building and there are no outside activities
• Class continues as usual
• Parents can enter, but doors remain locked after they enter or leave the building
The safety of our students is a top priority and we will continue to take all necessary measures in assuring that our school remains a safe environment for all our students."
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