PINETOP-LAKESIDE, Ariz. — Dozens of people gathered in Lakeside on Wednesday to support the victim of a recent attack and demanded that the school district take action against the three students accused.
In response, the district announced the closure of school campuses for several days.
A 19-year-old man, a recent graduate of the district, had to be airlifted to a hospital over the weekend after Show Low Police said a teenage girl lured him to an area where he was then severely beaten.
The assault happened on Sunday night when a 17-year-old girl told the victim to meet at Show Low Lake, according to police.
When the man got to the location, police said he was mobbed by two boys ages 16 and 17.
The victim suffered serious injuries and was flown by helicopter to Summit Health Center.
Police said everyone involved is from Lakeside, but investigators haven’t released their identities.
The protesters said that the Blue Ridge Unified School District is giving the accused students special treatment because of their athletic status.
The suspects were arrested and have since been released to their parents. They face the following possible charges:
- Aggravated assault
- Conspiracy
- Facilitation
Investigators are looking for tips about this case, and anyone with more information is asked to contact police at 928-537-5091 extension 230 or email mbutora@showlowaz.gov.
This is a developing story. Stay with 12 News for the latest information.
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