CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Police in Chesapeake are investigating after an Indian River High School student was assaulted by several people off campus on Wednesday afternoon.
The assault happened around 4:30 p.m. on the 2800 block of Candlewood Circle, according to a spokesperson from the Chesapeake Police Department. During the assault, one of the suspects had a gun that went off. However, no one was shot.
Neighbors describe the neighborhood as a quiet area, unused to violence. Thomas White, a longtime neighbor, said he was not home when the assault happened but heard about it from other neighbors.
"I think it's crazy because the whole world is like this now," said White. "This is a nice neighborhood and it doesn't need this kind of violence. We need to love one another."
First responders treated the student where the assault happened. Their name has not been released due to being underage.
At this time, police said two of the suspects have been identified, but the investigation is ongoing and their names aren't yet available. Police confirmed at least one of the suspects was an adult.
It is not yet known what caused the altercation.
Indian River High School Principal Naomi Dunbar shared the following message with students and families on Thursday morning:
"Yesterday evening, there was an off campus neighborhood disturbance that involved one of our students. The Chesapeake Police Department responded and are investigating the situation along with our school resource officer.
I want to inform our families that as an additional precaution, there will be a greater police presence at Indian River High School today. Please know that the safety of all students and staff continues to be our top priority and we remain vigilant in maintaining a safe school environment. Thank you for your continued support of our school."
On Thursday morning, Chesapeake Police increased their presence at the high school.
A spokesperson for Chesapeake Public Schools said their presence was just a precaution used for students' safety and normal operations should resume by Friday.