Two Forsyth County high school students are under investigation for vandalizing Roswell High School, according to Fulton County Schools officials.
On Friday, Sept. 13, the students from West Forsyth High School allegedly damaged Roswell's marching band practice field, according to an email from Roswell Principal Robert Shaw to parents obtained by the Forsyth County News.
Alleged video of the incident, captured from a social media account, shows a dark pick-up truck driving wildly on the drenched field at Roswell.
Shaw was informed of the damage by Roswell band members early Saturday morning, according to Shumuriel Ratliff, the school system's media relations manager.
West Forsyth’s football team was scheduled to play Roswell on Friday. The game was canceled around 8 p.m. after persistent lightning in the area.
The Fulton Schools Police Department is conducting a criminal investigation into the incident, according to Shaw.
“Finding those responsible is the priority for both Fulton and Forsyth County Schools,” Shaw said in the email.
Forsyth County Schools officials say they are cooperating with the investigation.
“We sincerely apologize to the Roswell High School students, staff and parents for the inexcusable actions of two West Forsyth High School students,” Forsyth County Schools said in a statement. “We are working with Fulton County school and police officials on the investigation and will ensure that those responsible for the vandalism received the appropriate consequence.”
Here’s the full email from Shaw, Roswell’s principal:
Dear Roswell Band Parents,
Like you, I am frustrated and upset about the vandalism that was done to the band practice field on Friday evening. I know how much work our students put into marching band and I am also aware of the time, talent, and treasure that our band parents put into the program, including the folks who went to the school on Saturday to try and make the field usable.
I wanted to share with you that I have been in contact today with Fulton Schools Police officials and District leadership, including Board member Katha Stuart. I have also spoken with West Forsyth principal Karl Mercer. Like me, he is working with his leadership and school police to determine who is responsible for what occurred.
Please keep in mind that this a criminal police investigation so the information that can be shared is very limited. I will communicate with you, through Mr. Moon and Mr. Long, any information that I can share, as soon as I can.
Finding those responsible is the priority for both Fulton and Forsyth County Schools. I truly want to thank all of you for the hard work and support, not only of our band program, but of all the students of Roswell High School.
Thanks,
Robert Shaw, Ed. D
Principal
Roswell High School
This story will be updated.