A 36-year-old Kentucky woman has been arrested following allegations that she strangled and “violently shook” a high school football player during a game, an incident serious enough to prompt officials to cancel the match entirely.
Kayla Barrett was taken into custody by state police and formally charged with one count of felony second-degree strangulation, according to court records.
A press release issued by the Monticello Police Department revealed that the investigation into Barrett was initiated after officers were dispatched to the Wayne County emergency room in response to a reported assault. Upon arrival, authorities found that a Wayne County football player was receiving medical evaluation for injuries he had sustained during a game against North Laurel.
Investigators subsequently determined that the player had been “strangled from behind by a female spectator during the game.”
With support from the Kentucky State Police, investigators were able to identify the suspect as Kayla Barrett. A criminal complaint was subsequently filed in Wayne District Court, and an arrest warrant was issued, according to police.
Kentucky State Police took Barrett into custody on November 3rd. She was then transported to the Laurel County Detention Center for processing.
The Lexington Herald-Leader reported that Barrett was released from jail under the condition that she refrain from attending “any school sporting events in this commonwealth.”
An arrest warrant obtained by the publication reportedly alleges that Barrett wrapped her hands around the neck of the victim, who is a minor, and “violently shook him by the neck in an attempt to obstruct his airway.”
“The assault was witnessed by several individuals,” police reportedly stated. “Additionally, video footage obtained by the North Laurel football program showed Barrett in the vicinity of where the alleged strangulation occurred.”
According to a report from the 13th Region Media Network, the incident unfolded with 6:34 remaining in the third quarter, when players became involved in a physical altercation in front of the North Laurel sideline. The confrontation quickly escalated as spectators from both sides stormed the field, ultimately prompting officials to bring the game to an early end.
North Laurel, which held a 21 to 12 lead at the time of the incident, was subsequently awarded the victory.
In an official statement, the Monticello Police Department expressed its gratitude to state police for their role in the investigation.
“The Monticello Police Department would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Kentucky State Police for their cooperation, assistance, and support throughout this investigation,” the department said.
Authorities further underscored the critical importance of maintaining a safe environment at school sporting events for both players and attendees.
“The safety of our student-athletes and community will always remain a priority. High school athletics should be an environment where student-athletes can compete safely, without fear of violence or intimidation. While emotions can run high during competitive sporting events, there is absolutely no justification for physical violence against players, coaches, officials, or spectators,” the department said.
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