A stabbing incident occurred on Monday, November 27, 2023, at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School in Raleigh, North Carolina.
The confrontation between two students resulted in the death of 15-year-old Delvin Ferrell and the hospitalization of another 16-year-old student with non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities have responded by charging a 14-year-old student with murder on a juvenile petition. The Raleigh Police Department’s response to the incident was swift, arriving at the scene at 11:01 a.m. after being alerted by a school resource officer.
The situation at the school escalated to a Code Red lockdown, with law enforcement and emergency personnel rapidly deployed to the site. Student-captured video footage shows that the altercation initially unfolded outside the gymnasium and then moved inside, creating a chaotic and alarming scene. A large, raucous crowd followed the students into the gym, cheering and whooping and filming on their phones.
The school premises were quickly surrounded by police vehicles and emergency responders, and the area was secured for investigation. Raleigh Police Chief Estella Patterson confirmed that the officers provided immediate aid to the victims before they were transported to hospitals for further medical attention.
In a subsequent press conference, Dr. Robert Taylor, Superintendent of Wake County Schools, addressed the critical issue of student safety. He announced that a thorough investigation is being conducted in partnership with local and state authorities. Dr. Taylor also addressed the concern regarding the knife’s presence on campus, noting the school’s reliance on specific protocols for searching students rather than using metal detectors.
The aftermath of the stabbing led to the cancellation of classes and after-school activities, reflecting the need for time to mourn and process the event. The school has availed counseling services, and the district’s crisis team is actively supporting students during this challenging time.
Dr. Taylor’s condolences to Delvin Ferrell’s family and friends underscore the profound sorrow and loss felt by the school community.
As the investigation by the Raleigh Police Department progresses, the community is urged to come forward with any relevant information. This collaborative effort aims to provide a clearer understanding of the events leading up to this tragic incident.
