In a chain of incidents at Statesville High School, several individuals found themselves in police custody, and the highly anticipated football game against West Iredell High School on Friday night had to be called off.
Shortly after apprehending three suspects, one of whom was found in possession of a firearm, law enforcement received alarming news of a shooting threat circulating on social media, specifically targeting students from West Iredell.
This grave development compelled school authorities to make the difficult decision to cancel the scheduled football game.
While the football game was in full swing, and prior to the emergence of the threatening situation, Statesville police officers came across Keonta Chambers, a 20-year-old individual wanted on eight felony charges related to a September shooting incident that left a 14-year-old injured.
During Chambers' arrest, officers discovered marijuana and an open container of alcohol next to Shabaz Lovette, a 28-year-old who was seated in the driver's position of a vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a firearm with an extended magazine cleverly concealed between the legs of Noel Alexander, a 23-year-old occupant in the back seat.
Alexander attempted to flee when authorities attempted to arrest him, necessitating the use of a taser for his successful arrest. Alexander now faces multiple charges, including possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a firearm on school premises, and resisting arrest. Meanwhile, Lovette received citations for misdemeanor possession of marijuana and possession of an open container.
It is important to note that none of the arrested individuals are students within the Iredell School System.
In response to these distressing events, Superintendent Dr. Jeff James expressed his dismay in a press release, stating, "I find it disheartening that even the sanctity of community under Friday night lights is threatened by the escalating hate in our society."
Despite the disruption, officials have announced that the football game will resume on Monday at 4:30 p.m., albeit without spectators. As this is an ongoing investigation, anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Statesville Police Department at 704-878-3515.
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