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Principal: 2 middle school students attacked by ‘group of adults’ in Newburgh

The administration says two students were attacked after dismissal and that one child had to be taken to the hospital.

Blaise Gomez

May 13, 2024, 11:39 AM

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A violent attack Friday involving a “group of adults” and students outside of South Middle School in Newburgh is under investigation, according to the school’s principal.

The administration says two students were attacked after dismissal and that one child had to be taken to the hospital.

The school’s principal, Roderick Phoenix, issued a statement in a letter to parents saying in part:

“This behavior is not welcomed or tolerated…We rely on our parents/guardians and families to act as a role model for our children.”

The district says law enforcement, school security and the school nurse responded to the incident and that it’s working with police to investigate.

There has been no word on the injured student’s condition.

City officials say 19-year-old Christopher A. Melendez was arrested and charged with assault and endangering the welfare of a child for his alleged role in the incident.

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