- WARNING – THIS STORY CONTAINS A GRAPHIC IMAGE
A teenage boy suffered a serious injury to his face during an alleged assault at his east Auckland school.
The Times and other media outlets have been contacted by a friend of the 13-year-old victim’s family who says the incident at Somerville Intermediate School yesterday, August 8, has been reported to police.
“The attack left him with severe facial injuries that required immediate surgery.
“Shockingly, the school did not take prompt action following the incident.
“Despite the severity of the injuries, the school failed to call an ambulance.
“It was the boy’s parents who had to call an ambulance while they rushed to the school.”
Photos of the victim show he suffered a deep gash under his right eye and had blood on his face and clothes.
The family friend says as of this morning the school had yet to follow up on the incident “or shown any concern for the boy’s welfare”.
“Furthermore, the parents of the child responsible for the assault have not reached out or taken any responsibility.
“This lack of attention and the way the school has handled the situation is utterly ignorant and unprofessional, putting all children at risk.
“It is crucial for such incidents to be handled with urgency and care to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.”
A police spokesperson says: “Investigations are continuing following a report of an alleged assault in Somerville yesterday afternoon.
“At about 3.54pm, police received a report of a young person allegedly assaulted by another young person earlier in the day.
“The victim suffered serious facial injuries and was taken to hospital.
“Enquiries are in the very early stages and police are working hard to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. Victim support is being provided.”
Somerville Intermediate School principal Yolande Franke says: “We followed school procedures and will continue working through the process.
“The care and attention provided was immediate and appropriate.
“We have been in contact with the family throughout and will continue to show support and care.”
