Police are investigating an assault on a teenage girl in Pitt Meadows, after the video a swarming attack by a group of teens was posted online and in the media.
Ridge Meadows RCMP confirmed on Tuesday they are investigating an assault that occurred at Pitt Meadows Secondary on Saturday evening, June 3.
One youth was taken to hospital by BC Emergency Health Services, and she reported to other Lower Mainland media that she has suffered a concussion, cuts and bruises.
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The teen, who has been taking classes online at home due to bullying behaviour, had been walking near the school with two friends, and a group of girls chased them, and then physically attacked her.
A disturbing video of a portion of the assault shows her laying on the ground, while at least three girls punched, kicked and stomped on her, yelling and even laughing. She and a friend had been trying to walk away from a large crowd, when a girl grabbed her from behind and pulled her to the ground.
She got away from her attackers, and went to a nearby house.
At least two teens filmed the incident.
Those who saw the video on social media described it as “sickening” and “gross,” and said kids and their parents should be held accountable.
The stepfather of the victim said his daughter did not want to go to the school, but was convinced to go by a friend who then recorded the attack. So it appears his step daughter, who had been avoiding her attackers, was lured there.
Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows School district spokesperson Irena Pochop said the district is supporting the police investigation.
“The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows School District learned on Sunday about the deeply concerning incident that occurred on the grounds of Pitt Meadows Secondary School amidst a large gathering of youths following the Pitt Meadows Day festivities,” said Pochop.
“The district can confirm that the youths involved in the incident do not attend Pitt Meadows Secondary. Our district-wide code of conduct outlines expectations for the highest standards of respectful and responsible citizenship. Not only does this behaviour clearly violate our code of conduct, it is also alarming and demands appropriate follow up.”
Anyone who witnessed the assault, or has dash-cam video from the area, is asked to contact the Ridge Meadows RCMP directly at 604-463-6251.
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