A shocking incident unfolded at a Riverton basketball court, where two 12-year-old girls were attacked by a group of individuals, including an adult woman and several teenagers.
According to witnesses, the girls were jumped by Shantel Fairclough, her 16- and 18-year-old daughters, and four other youths.
One of the young girls, Aaliyah, suffered a punch to the jaw during the assault.
The attack prompted outrage from parents and community members, many of whom expressed disbelief and anger on social media.
Nicole Bale, one of the victims’ mothers, shared her frustration, urging anyone with information about the suspects to come forward. Bale wrote,
“I am SO MAD I cannot even put words into it! If you have any information on these people, please message me—they are going to jail!”
Facebook
Community reactions flooded in, with many condemning the violent act and voicing support for the victims.
Concerned parents discussed the dangers at the basketball courts, while others emphasized the need to involve law enforcement to hold the adult accountable.
Many stressed that adults striking children must be documented and punished appropriately.
Shantel Fairclough, identified as the adult involved, previously attended Lanphier High School and currently lives in Springfield, Illinois.
She originally hails from Gulfport, Mississippi. Authorities are reportedly investigating the incident, and community members continue to urge anyone with information to report it to the police.
The Riverton community is left reeling after this disturbing attack, and parents are calling for increased safety measures around local recreation areas to protect children from similar incidents in the future.
