Deputies Respond To Second Fight In 6 Months At Paramount High School

PARAMOUNT (CBSLA) — Cell phone video captured the chaos after a fight broke out Tuesday at Paramount High School's West Campus, leaving some students afraid of returning to school.

Students said several fights have broken out over the past few days between Black and Hispanic students.

"I was frustrated, because the school needs to do something," Nobel Johnson, a parent, said. "You guys need to have a conversation — bring these kids together."

Concerned parents and students gathered at the school Tuesday night to talk about the recent fights, all of which they said were racially motivated — the school is predominantly Hispanic with a small Black population.

"When I received a call on Friday that my daughter was possibly involved in riots, it flooded me with emotions I've never felt before," Tyrone Gregory, a parent, said.

Students said the violence has been an ongoing issue at the school. Last September, sheriff's deputies were called to the campus to break up a fight, which ended with several teens being pepper-sprayed.

Parents said although tighter security would make them feel safer, they said they would like to see the district hold assemblies or incorporate forums that promote racial sensitivity and inclusion.

"We send our kids here for an education, to play sports and that's it," Laticia Bursey, a parent, said. "I don't feel like I should have to wake up in the morning and worry if I'm gonna carry my son's casket at the end of the day."

The Paramount Unified School District said it would continue to investigate the matter and that the students involved would be held accountable for their actions.

"The school's leadership will take steps to remind students of the consequences of such behavior," the statement said.

The superintendent also said that a number of students were either suspended, cited or arrested after Tuesday's fight.