A Virginia track athlete is under fire after a heated moment on the track led to an assault charge — and now, the whole situation is going viral.
During a recent Class 3 State Indoor Championship meet, I.C. Norcom High School senior Alaila Everett reportedly struck another runner in the head with a baton mid-race.
Everett, who’s well-known in her local track circuit, says it was nothing more than an unfortunate accident.
The video of the incident made rounds online, showing Everett and Brookville High School’s Kaelen Tucker rounding a curve during the 4×200 meter relay — when things went left.
“After a couple times of hitting her, my baton got stuck behind her back … and it rolled up her back. I lost my balance when I pumped my arms again. She got hit,” Everett told WAVY, clearly emotional in the interview.
Unfortunately for Everett, the consequences came quick — I.C. Norcom got disqualified from the race, and the Lynchburg Commonwealth’s Attorney Office hit her with a petition for assault and battery.
NAACP Steps In: “Alaila Is NOT An Attacker”
Everett’s not standing alone in this. The Portsmouth NAACP stepped forward, blasting the decision to press charges and calling the whole thing “concerning” and “not warranted.”
In a bold statement, the NAACP didn’t hold back:
“Alaila is NOT AN ATTACKER.”
They also condemned the racial slurs and threats that Everett’s been receiving ever since the clip went viral. Let’s be real — this whole situation has brought out some ugly sides of the internet.
The NAACP stressed that they’re keeping both families in their thoughts, but they ain’t here for the media painting Everett like she’s some kind of villain.
Family Drama and Court Orders: What Happens Next?
Things keep heating up off the track too. Everett’s family has reportedly been served with court papers, as the Tuckers are seeking a protective order.
Meanwhile, Everett says she tried to apologize to Tucker on social media but got blocked.
Now, people online are divided — some calling her out, others standing behind her.
The Virginia High School League (VHSL) is still looking into the situation, but they’re keeping their cards close for now.
“We don’t comment on individuals or disciplinary actions… The actions taken by the meet director were appropriate and correct,” said VHSL’s Mike McCall in a statement to WAVY.
Portsmouth Schools Say They’re Cooperating Fully
Portsmouth Public Schools also issued a response, saying they followed proper procedures and reported everything to the VHSL. According to Lauren Nolasco, the district’s Director of Communications:
“The division immediately reported the incident to the Virginia High School League (VHSL), which is still investigating… The division will support and follow the ruling that comes from the VHSL.”
Alaila Everett Speaks Out: “It Was an Accident”
In her sit-down with WAVY, Everett kept it real. She said everything happened so fast and she simply lost her balance in the moment.
But what really hit home was her talking about all the hate she’s received since then — racist DMs, threats, and cyberbullying.
It’s clear the whole situation has taken a toll on her, both mentally and emotionally.
And while this incident raises big questions about athlete conduct, racial bias, and media portrayal — one thing is for sure: this story ain’t over yet.