(via khou.com)
ALIEF, Texas—A man accused of taking part in a brutal assault maintained his innocence just before turning himself into police.
“I didn’t have anything to do with it,” said 17-year-old Patrick Day while walking into the Alief Independent School District Police headquarters building. “I don’t know what’s going on.”
Authorities said Day was part of a mob that attacked a 17-year-old victim two and a half weeks ago. The alleged assault took place on the grounds of the Elsik 9th Grade Center and was captured by school surveillance cameras.
“The only reason they’re arresting me is because they’re going off of what people said,” added Day.
School officials believe the assault began at an apartment complex located across the street from the school’s campus. A mob of about 20 people reportedly chased the victim onto the grounds of the school. Two maintenance workers were credited with breaking up the attack.
“We’re just fortunate they were in the right place to intervene and save the young man’s life,” said Susan Castro, a spokesperson for the Alief Independent School District.
Some people who live near the school blamed the attack on rival gangs. A local activist accused school officials of ignoring the problem.
“And until they take a realistic approach to this, it will probably happen again,” said Quanell X.
Authorities have arrested five suspects and continue their search for three more. According to school officials, all of those arrested will face charges of attempted murder.
The victim was hospitalized and slipped into a coma at one point. Authorities said he’s expected to survive.
