Syracuse, New York — Authorities are urging at least 11 high school students to surrender within the next 48 hours or risk facing felony kidnapping charges related to an alleged assault involving several younger lacrosse players. Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick characterized the incident as “a situation that goes far beyond hazing.”
The alarming events occurred last Thursday evening when a group of students from Westhill High School, who cannot be named due to their age, engaged in what Fitzpatrick described as a misguided attempt at hazing or pranking younger teammates. During a press briefing, Fitzpatrick provided details on the incident that left one student traumatized.
In a premeditated act, the victim was lured to a secluded area under the pretense of going to a fast-food restaurant after a lacrosse game. Once there, he was confronted by a group wearing black clothing and armed with what he believed to be a gun and a knife. Witnesses say the group placed a pillowcase over his head, restrained him, and placed him in the trunk of a car before abandoning him in a remote wooded location. The victim was later returned home, but not before enduring a harrowing experience that left him fearing for his life.
Fitzpatrick shared that a videotape of the incident shows participants laughing, alleging that their actions were entertaining rather than criminal. “This is not a rite of passage,” he said, emphasizing the serious implications of the event.
The public outcry resulted in the cancellation of the remaining boys’ varsity lacrosse season by Westhill Central School District Superintendent Stephen Dunham. While acknowledging that most team members were uninvolved, Dunham stated a cultural reset was necessary within the program.
The district’s strict anti-hazing policy prohibits any form of harassment, and Dunham condemned the actions, labeling them as indefensible. He assured parents that the school administration acted promptly upon learning about the incident, launching an investigation and notifying law enforcement.
Fitzpatrick has made it clear that the decision to pursue charges lies solely with the state and not the victims or their families. He warned those involved of the serious consequences they may face if they do not turn themselves in. “If you choose to gamble with your freedom, so be it. The sheriff’s department will find you,” he cautioned.
Should the alleged perpetrators choose not to comply, Fitzpatrick stated they would face serious felony charges that could lead to prosecution as adults. The district attorney’s message was firm: the impending criminal consequences reflect the gravity of the crime rather than being a mere misunderstanding during a playful encounter.
The investigation into this troubling episode began after a school resource officer alerted the sheriff’s department. Fitzpatrick expressed concern over rampant rumors circulating in the community, suggesting they distract from the ongoing investigation. Both he and Dunham urged patience as they strive to uncover the truth behind what transpired, emphasizing the importance of a thorough process free from public speculation.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on the safety and well-being of all students involved, both victims and alleged perpetrators, as they navigate the aftermath of this shocking incident.