Three people wearing ski masks forced their way onto a public school bus and attacked a student on his way home for the day, according to North Carolina investigators. The Enfield Police Department stated in a news statement that they were armed with a gun, despite conflicting claims.
The attack happened shortly before 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8, near an Enfield crossroads, and was reported by “a concerned parent,” according to police. Enfield is approximately a 70-mile drive northeast of Raleigh.
“Three individuals came onto the school bus wearing hooded sweatshirts and ski masks. … The individuals in the ski masks were attempting to attack others who were on the school bus,” the investigating officer added.
“The suspects assaulted at least one student. Some of the students… stated that there was a firearm there, but this could not be confirmed.”
The invaders had fled by the time police and Halifax County deputies arrived, officials said.
Principal Kenneth Perry Jr. said the bus was carrying pupils from Southeast Collegiate Prep Academy in Halifax. “Thankfully, our students were unharmed, and the situation was resolved quickly,” Perry stated in the release.
“We are actively examining the situation and improving our security processes to avoid such instances in the future. To underscore our commitment to safety, we will review our bus procedures with both children and staff.”
Investigators have identified three suspects, all of whom are adolescents, and charges are expected, according to officials.