STATESVILLE, N.C. — A series of incidents at Statesville High School led to multiple arrests and the cancellation of the football game against West Iredell High School on Friday night.
Shortly after arresting three people, one of whom had a gun, police learned that a shooting threat was made on social media. The threat was against students from West Iredell and forced school officials to cancel the football game.
While the game was active and before the threat was known, Statesville police officers found Keonta Chambers, age 20, who was wanted for eight felony warrants related to a shooting in September that injured a 14-year-old.
While officers arrested Chambers, they saw marijuana and an open container of alcohol beside Shabaz Lovette, 28, who was in the driver’s seat of a vehicle.
After searching the car he was in, they found a gun with an extended magazine concealed between the legs of Noel Alexander, age 23, who was in the back seat.
Police say Alexander tried to run when they tried to arrest him, and they used a taser to successfully arrest him.
Alexander now faces the following charges:
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Possession of a firearm on school grounds
- Resisting arrest
Lovette was cited for misdemeanor possession of marijuana and possession of an open container.
According to the Iredell School System, none of the arrested individuals are students.
“I find it disheartening that even the sanctity of community under Friday night lights is threatened by the escalating hate in our society,” Superintendent Dr. Jeff James wrote in a press release.
Officials say the game will resume on Monday at 4:30 p.m. at South Iredell High School, but no spectators will be allowed. Police said several officers from the Troutman Police Department and the Statesville Police Department will be on campus “to ensure the safety of players and staff during this event.”
This is an active investigation. Anyone with additional information can contact the Statesville Police Department at 704-878-3515.
(WATCH: Dozens identified in game-canceling fight at Monroe football game)
©2023 Cox Media Group
