Kaelen Tucker is a junior sprinter at Brookville High School in Virginia. On March 7, 2025, during the VHSL Class 3 State Indoor Championships at Liberty University, she was involved in a concerning incident during the 4×200 meter relay race. As she attempted to overtake a competitor from I.C. Norcom High School, Tucker was struck in the head with a baton by the opposing runner, leading to her falling and sustaining injuries.
Medical evaluations revealed that Tucker suffered a concussion and a possible skull fracture. Despite the severity of the incident, neither the athlete involved nor the coaches from I.C. Norcom High School have issued an apology or explanation to Tucker or her family.
The opposing runner, Alaila Everett, has publicly stated that the incident was accidental, expressing remorse and explaining that her baton got caught, causing her to lose balance and inadvertently hit Tucker. Everett has faced significant backlash, including racist slurs and death threats, following the incident.
The Virginia High School League (VHSL) is currently investigating the incident. Meanwhile, Tucker is recovering from her injuries, and her family is seeking answers and an apology for the unexpected and distressing event.