Three Schoolboys Charged with Assault After Violent Attack on Teen from Another School in Mangere

Auckland, New Zealand – Three teenage boys, aged between 15 and 16, have been charged with assault following a violent incident involving a group of students from Māngere College attacking a student from Marcellin College. The attack took place on February 12, as the Marcellin College student was getting off a bus and subsequently chased to a car park behind McDonald’s by the group of teenagers.

The victim, a junior at Marcellin College, was hospitalized after being struck in the head with a bottle, punched, kicked, and stomped on by multiple assailants from Māngere College. Witnesses reported that around 30 teenagers watched and even encouraged the attack, with some filming the violent incident.

In response to the assault, police have charged the three boys involved and have referred them to Youth Aid for accountability. Authorities emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards violence, particularly in public spaces, and affirmed that those responsible will be held responsible for their actions.

Following the attack, school and community leaders called for calm and an end to any rivalry between the two schools. Marcellin College staff members positioned themselves at Māngere Town Centre to prevent further incidents, with police eventually stepping in to patrol the area. Bus routes were temporarily altered to avoid dropping off Marcellin students near the town center as a precaution.

Community meetings involving police and the families of those involved have taken place, with efforts towards finding resolution to the conflict. The schools’ principals have also met to address the situation and ensure the safety of their students.

Additionally, local security measures have been implemented, with a private firm providing patrols in the affected area at no cost. Community advocates have expressed the importance of promoting unity among students from different schools, focusing on common ground rather than differences.

Moving forward, efforts to strengthen relationships and connections within the community are underway, with the aim of fostering understanding and harmony among students from various backgrounds. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing conflicts peacefully and promoting a culture of respect within neighborhoods and schools.