Fights erupt at Duncan’s Cowichan school

Police called in to protect students; incidents under investigation

Officials from Cowichan Tribes and the Cowichan Valley school district are investigating a series of fights Monday at Duncan’s Cowichan Secondary School.

“Both Cowichan Tribes and the school district are aware of the incident involving several students that took place [Monday] afternoon at the James Street campus of Cowichan Secondary School,” says a statement issued by Chief William (Chip) Seymour of Cowichan Tribes and district superintendent Rod Allen.

“Together we want to reinforce that we do not condone any kind of fighting, bullying or harassment of others — this applies on or off school property.”

At least one of the students involved was reported to be Aboriginal.

The statement said a police presence at the school Tuesday was to “ensure the safety and security of students and staff and to provide some calmness to the situation.”

“The school is currently reviewing video and other evidence to determine the facts of what took place, with the support of the RCMP.”

Cowichan Tribes and the district will be setting up a meeting to review what happened and look at ways prevent similar occurrences in the future.

“There are a lot of rumours online and in the community about the nature of these incidents, and we encourage our communities to stay focused on the facts,” the statement said.

“It is important to keep in mind that rumours on social media both during and after events of this nature do little to assist anyone in their efforts to determine what took place.

“They can simply hinder any investigation and escalate the anxiety of those involved.”

Support is being offered to students, staff and families who have been affected.